Arguments and Paragraphs – Two Important Elements in Good Scientific Writing

Abstract

Abstract

“Arguments and Paragraphs – Two Important Elements in Good Scientific Writing” is a POGIL learning-cycle activity designed for undergraduate science courses and undergraduate research programs such as Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs and course-based undergraduate research experiences.  This activity is designed to teach students how to recognize inductive and deductive arguments and how to structure an argument using the three major elements (claims, evidence, and reasoning) in the structure of a paragraph.  Students work individually and as a team to analyze paragraphs from a highly cited peer-reviewed article.  The post-exercise allows students to apply and hone their understanding through a critical evaluation of a paragraph of a paper that they are writing.  After completing the activity, students will recognize inductive and deductive argumentation and be able to construct paragraphs so that they constitute arguments. 

Level: lower to senior-level college
Setting: classroom or recitation
Activity Type: learning cycle
Discipline: science
Course: any course focused on writing
Keywords: argument, claims, inductive/deductive, paragraph, topic sentence