Explain what an argument environment is. Describe what an argument environment is like in a classroom setting. How can speakers play an active role in shaping the setting?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Students should define an argument environment in relation to the physical setting,
atmosphere, climate, and mood where an argument takes place. Further, students should discuss
how argument environments contain important physical cues indicating the kind of interaction
that is likely to take place.
Descriptions of a classroom setting will vary but might discuss how the desks are placed in the
room, what the lighting is like, what color the room is, what decorations it has, what objects are
inside, if there are windows or not, etc. For instance, a student might discuss how a classroom
has a series of desks in four rows. All of the desks face forward to where the teacher has a
podium and desk facing the classroom. The classroom might have windows to let in sunlight or might be an enclosed room. Finally, students should discuss that speakers are not passive
recipients to their environment but can play an active role in shaping an argument environment.
For instance, advocates might adjust the desks in the room to make them either more formal or
informal. Further, advocates might change the lighting to create a more intimate or spectacular
scene.