For this assignment, you will compose two short critical essays explaining and evaluating arguments by other authors. This assignment allows you to analyze an issue from a variety of perspectives and assess arguments for or against the issue. By focusing your attention on how the original authors use evidence and reasoning to construct and support their positions, you can recognize the value of critical thinking in public discourse.

Read the two articles “Shooting in the Dark“, http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/1285624142?accountid=34899

and “Focusing on the How of Violence” http://search.proquest.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/docview/1473509927?accountid=34899

and write two separate analytical summaries. 

This assignment has two parts.

Part 1—First Article

Write an analytical summary of the article focusing on the article’s main claims. Include the following:

• Provide a brief summary of the argument presented in the article.
• Identify and discuss three ways the author uses evidence to support assertions.
• Analyze how the author signals this usage through elements such as word choices, transitions, or logical connections.

Part 2—Second Article

Write an analytical summary of the article focusing on the article’s main claims. Include the following:

• Provide a brief summary of the argument presented in the article.
• Identify any value-based assertions in the article and how the author supports these value-based conclusions with evidence.
• Discuss how this evidence does or does not demonstrate relevance, consistency, transparency, and speculation.
• Analyze how the author signals the use of these elements through language. For example, word choices, transitions, or logical connections.

Write a 1,000–1,200 word paper in Word format. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.

By Wednesday, February 4, 2015, deliver your assignment.

Grading Criteria and Rubric

Assignment 2 Grading Criteria	Maximum Points
Article One Summary:
Summarize the argument presented in the article.	20
Identify and discuss three ways that the author uses evidence to support the primary claims in the article.	40
Evaluate how language is used to effectively employ this use of evidence such as through word choice, transition, and logical connections.	20
Article Two Summary:
Summarize the article and identify how the author uses evidence to support assertions.	20
Discuss how the author’s use of evidence does or does not demonstrate relevance, consistency, transparency, and speculation.	40
Analyze how the author uses language to effectively employ these elements (word choice, transition, logical connections).	20
Presentation Components: Organization (12) Style (8) Usage and Mechanics (12) APA Elements (8)	40
Total:	200