First-Year Writing Seminar (101-8-20)

Topic

Evidence

Instructors

Nicolette Bruner

Meeting Info

Elder Hall 030 Seminar Room: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

"Evidence"

In both academic writing and the practice of law, evidence makes the argument. In turn, the standards by which evidence is assessed vary based on the type of claim being made and the venue. Sometimes, we must just show that our interpretation is more than likely true; when more is on the line, our evidence must be stronger, ready to overwhelm any reasonable doubt. Focusing on "reason," in turn, reminds us that when we make an argument, what matters most is not how we feel or what we think should happen, but rather what conclusions logic can draw from the evidence at hand.

This class uses evidentiary standards in American civil and criminal law to structure exercises in academic argumentation. Students will practice identifying strong evidence in context; moving from evidence to argument; crafting a robust thesis statement; deploying points in a logical order; and expressing themselves in Academic Standard English. No knowledge of U.S. law is required.

Class Materials (Required)

All materials for this course will be made available on Canvas - no purchase necessary.

Class Attributes

WCAS Writing Seminar

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Weinberg First Year Seminars are only available to first-year students.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required