Tom is in a factual dispute with Linda about whether the Earth is flat. What steps should Tom take when preparing his argument? Take on the role of Tom and develop a sample argument.

What will be an ideal response?


First, Tom should determine the stock issues and create appropriate criteria for evaluation.
Second, Tom will need to establish his narrative plot. Third, Tom should gather evidence to
support his narrative. Finally, Tom should organize his argument. A sample argument could look
like: Tom decides to use the empirical criteria of science. Tom could contend that the earth is
spherical because scientists have launched satellites into space and they have taken photographic
evidence of the earth’s shape. The argument narrative might begin with the Ancient Greek’s
belief that the earth was spherical because they watched ships disappear over the horizon. Then
the argument could progress with modern scientific evidence of satellite images and astronauts’
testimony of seeing the shape of earth from space.

Communication & Mass Media

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Our judgments of people can be influenced by the particular gestures they use. In two experiments, one team of researchers found that people rated a woman posed in a photograph with her hand over her heart as more ______ than when she posed in a photograph without her hand placed over her heart.

a. intelligent b. attractive c. sociable d. honest

Communication & Mass Media

By providing free access to most sites on the Internet Netscape and similar browsers put many subscription-only walled gardens out of business

Indicate whether this statement is true or false.

Communication & Mass Media

What is one advantage of memorized speaking?

A) most natural delivery style B) easiest for most speakers to do well C) maximum eye contact with the audience D) best technique for persuasive speaking

Communication & Mass Media

Basic bibliographical facts about a source, such as title and date, are contained in the

A. citation. B. tipsheet. C. bulletin. D. abstract.

Communication & Mass Media