Reading Response: They Say, I Say

Page 1 Ella Yearicks English 102 Christy Vance October 30, 2009 Arguing is one of the most popular ways of associating with other people; it can be a positive thing or it could be a negative thing. Even though you disagree with someone does not mean that you are putting that person down in any way. Everyone has his or her own opinion and there’s nothing anyone can do about that. So the next time someone disagrees with you don’t take it as an insult, they are just merely expressing their own feelings and there is nothing wrong with that. They Say, I Say, is one of the most valuable readings there is to read before writing an argument paper. Whether for a class assignment or a letter to the editor, this essay gives numerous ideas of how to argue a good argument no matter what side you choose. While “constructing an argument, remember you are entering a conversation and therefore need to start with ‘what others are saying,’ and then introduce your own ideas as a response. Summarize what ‘they say’ as soon as you can and state your own opinion” right afterwards (19). This quote tells how to start an argument. I like the way the writer affectively states throughout his essay sure ways of getting ones point across without complication. The reader will understand a lot better, what your position is, if you state it at the very beginning of your argument. I also like the fact the writer tells specifically each way you can agree, disagree, or both. There are more than two sides to every argument. When you disagree you need to not only say that you disagree, but you need to explain why you disagree. Same thing if you agree with a particular subject, you need to state the fact that you agree and then give reasons why you agree. Even though it may seem lazy to both agree and disagree with anything it is a more affective decision than you may think. With this strategy you can agree with one side of the argument, and yet disagree with another side without causing confusion. No matter if you agree, disagree or both make sure it is clear to the reader which side you are on, and do it early or your paper will not be as effective as it could be. Remember, if you don’t choose a side you are not arguing you are just stating facts without any reason for doing so (They Say, I Say). The most effective way (well, pretty much the only way) of arguing is to either agree, disagree or both. You simply can’t argue if you don’t have your own opinion.