• Write a 5–7 page research paper through which you apply the critical reasoning to analyze and explain it. In your paper, you will:
  • Introduce and fully elaborate on the topic you have selected.
  • Provide a summary of situation by giving relevant background to establish the context.
  • Provide a balanced discussion of both sides of the issue:
    • Determine what argument is being made. What are we supposed to conclude about this situation?
    • Choose 3–5 examples of rhetorical devices discussed in class, which apply to the way in which the situation is presented by the media to the public on both sides. Provide an example and explanation of each rhetorical device. Strive for a balanced discussion of language, arguments presented, and evidence used to support an argument (formally or informally).
  • A discussion of the gatekeepers influence on the way in which the audience understands the situation.
  • A discussion of biases (cultural and personal) that influence the way in which the audience interprets the situation.
  • A discussion of at least 3 fallacies that are used. Define and discuss.
  • An analysis of how a critical thinker should approach interpreting and using the information available regarding the situation to make an informed decision or form an informed opinion.

Note: This is not an opinion paper. You are not stating whether or not you agree or disagree with a position; rather, you are presenting both sides of the issue, analyzing the rhetoric use, and determining what a critical thinker needs to know before drawing a conclusion.

Structure of research paper:

• Your paper must be written in current APA style.
• You must have a minimum of 6 sources (at least 3 academic). You may use your book as one source.
• You must include a cover page, an abstract, and a complete reference page in alphabetical order.
• You are discussing your topic through the lens of critical reasoning. Keep in mind that you are demonstrating competence, so imagine that you are going to present this paper to a group of educated adults. Do not assume that anyone knows anything about this topic.
• Write in a professional, third person-tone (do not use “I”; no grammar or punctuation errors).
• A Turn-it-in score of 20% or less is required.

There is never enough practice for implementing activities. Each time a lesson is taught, a teacher learns something new about effective teaching practices through self-reflection, especially when implementing multiple content areas in one lesson for cross-disciplinary instruction.

Allocate at least 5 hours in the field to support this field experience.

Part 1: Implementation

For this field experience, you will deliver the literacy activity you created in Topic 2, or a lesson of your mentor’s choice, to a small group of students that your mentor teacher has selected. Remember to focus on:

• Instructional strategies for literacy development.
• Differentiation, including accommodations to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Creating engagement and promoting discussion.

Part 2: Mentor Feedback

After your implementation, ask your mentor teacher the following:

• How effectively did I integrate literacy into the activity?
• Were students engaged?
• How effectively did I meet the needs of all students?
• What did I do well and what can I do better?

Use any remaining field experience hours to assist the mentor teacher in providing instruction and support to the class.

Part 3: Personal Reflection

• How did I integrate literacy in the activity?
• Did students demonstrate the concepts of the activity? How?
• How did I differentiate by using resources and/or technology to make necessary accommodations in the activity?
• What do I feel went well in the class and what might have gone better?
• How did I know if the students met the learning objective of the activity?
• What would my next steps be for my future practice?

Write a reflection of 250-500 words summarizing your implementation experience, mentor’s feedback, and your personal reflection.

APA format is not required, but solid academic writing is expected.

This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.