I continued to discuss the importance of understanding both sides of an argument

In all classes, we looked at examples of persuasive writing.  In sections 3, 6, and HB, we read a simple version of the ant essay they will be writing soon.  In sections HB, 4, and 5, we read a persuasive piece based on the picture book "Earrings" by Judith Viorst.  The writer of the piece not only showed that she understood both positions taken in the book, but she then went on to make a logical recommendation for the parents in the book. 

We discussed how persuasion should be based on logic.  However, in reality, when logic can't win the argument, we resort to artificial means of persuasion.  In the book, the nine year-old girl resorted to begging, yelling, and threatening the parents that she won't stop asking her parents for earrings until she gets what she wants. 

Once the debates start, I am always amazed at how the initial logical arguments soon degenerate into quibbling over minor points just to appear as if they are winning.