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Assignment 2: LASA 1—Analytical Summaries

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 “Predictive Probes”, and “New Test Tells Whom a Crippling Disease Will Hit—and When” from the textbook and write two separate analytical summaries. These articles can be found in the chapter titled: Deciding to accept an argument: Compare the evidence.

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:

• Identify the three ways the author uses evidence to support assertions.
• Identify the places where evidence is employed as well as how the author uses this evidence. Discuss evidence “as the reason” vs. “the support for the reason.” Also discuss evidence as dependent on the issue/context.
• 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:

• Identify the author’s use of the three elements: experiment, correlation, and speculation to support assertions.
• Analyze how the author signals the use of these elements through language. For example, word choices, transitions, or logical connections.

Write a 4–5-page paper in Word format. Apply APA standards to citation of sources. Use the following file naming convention: LastnameFirstInitial_M3_A2.doc.