Assignment 4.3: Evaluate and Defend

1. Learning Targets

2. Fact, Opinion, and Bias

"There are no facts, only interpretations" ~Fredrick Nietzsche. In order to solve problems, to connect with others, and to understand an issue fully, it is important to be able to consider different perspectives.

3. Compare Two Views

Compare the two views in the poem below using a T-chart graphic organizer. Reflect why these two men might see the same things so differently.

The language used in statements is the biggest clue to their origin. Review the statements below and try and create some of your own statements changing them to fit into all three categories.

4. Bias and Opinion Practice

Read the following articles in the Bias Opinion Practice Activity worksheet below and complete the activity to review bias and perspective.

Bias Opinion Practice Activity.docx
Bias Opinion Practice Activity.pdf

DO NOT submit these practice activities. If you find that you are struggling, share them with your instructor for guidance.

5. The Art of Syntax

Syntax is the arrangement of words in a sentence.  These are the rules for stylistic effect that influence interpretation, mood and tone in writing and speaking.

Let's review and practice some of the basic rules. 

Basic rules:

1. A simple sentence has at least one subject and one verb/predicate.  This basic unit can also be called an independent clause, which means it can stand alone.
   • Superman flies. This short, simple sentence meets the criteria of 1 subject and 1 verb.
2. A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses joined together by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet).
   • Superman flies, but Spiderman climbs.
3. A complex sentence has an independent clause and at least one subordinate clause.
   • Superman flies, while Spiderman just hangs around
   • A subordinate clause is similar to an independent clause and has a subject and a verb; however, it cannot stand alone because it begins with a subordinating conjunction (while, although, where, because, though, and how) or by a relative pronoun (whomever, whose, whatever, which, and whom)
4. A compound complex sentence has two or more independent clauses and at least one subordinate clause.
   • Even though Spiderman gets into some sticky situations, there are many examples of Superman being less than super, where Lois Lane had to save him when he was in trouble.

Video Review:

6. Grammar Check Up

Subject and Verb Agreement

When you are speaking or writing to convey a message or strong feeling, mistakes in your grammar can weaken your influence upon your audience.

Subject-verb agreement shows balance and clarity for your reader.

Verbs

1. Verbs must agree with their subjects, even when they are separated by several other words or when their order is reversed.
   • The entire cosmetic industry (subject) has (verb) been created to prevent aging.
   • I have (verb) many activities (subject) planned for this afternoon.
2. Collective nouns (birds) take on singular verbs (sing)
   • Is (singular verb) anyone (collective noun) ready for lunch?
   • The team (collective noun) likes (singular verb) the restaurant.
3. When sentences include either...or or neither...nor, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.
   • Neither Megan nor her family (collective noun) are (collective verb) fond of broccoli.
   • Either the team members or the captain (singular) is (singular) going to have to make the decision.

Pronouns

* Pronouns replace a noun
* Antecedents replace the pronoun
* Indefinite pronoun antecedents include broad or undetermined number

anyone    each     everyone    no one   someone    one
anybody  either    everybody  nothing  somebody   other
anything  neither  everything  nobody  something

1. A pronoun must agree with its antecedent which is the word that the pronoun refers to or replaces.
   • Front wheel drive cars (antecedent) are the best for their (pronoun) good handling.
2. Indefinite pronouns are usually singular, even though some may seem plural.
   • Anyone (indefinite pronoun antecedent) who is finished may hand in his or her (singular pronoun) essay.
3. Be consistent in your pronoun use.
   • I take pride in my car; it is great to have your (incorrect: should be "my") own transportation.

Now you try.  Open the following worksheet and rewrite each sentence to correct the subject-verb or pronoun agreement error.

Agreement Practice.DOCX

Agreement Practice.PDF

*DO NOT submit this practice for marks

7. ASSIGNMENT 4.3

Go to "4.3 Evaluate and Defend" Assignment on the main page of the course to complete this section.