For this assignment, we will explore an alternative form of argument. Not all argument is found
within text.
Memes are defined as: “attention-grabbing images with clever captions that pepper
social media feeds—permeate our cultural discourse. While memes have the potential to
replace thoughtful conversation and impede connections between different opinions,
with proper scaffolding they can be the entry point for critical thinking.”
Remember memes are a way to construct collective identity and students can strongly
identify with a meme. Acknowledge the negative and positive power of the medium and
refrain from a personal response to memes students choose, giving the task of critically
analyzing the meme back to the students.
Definitions to consider and include in the analysis:
A fact is verifiable. We can determine whether it is true by researching the
evidence.
An opinion is a judgment based on facts, an honest attempt to draw a reasonable
conclusion from factual evidence.
Unlike an opinion, a belief is a conviction based on cultural or personal faith,
morality, or values.
Instructor: K Magargal
Assertions: are statements about what is true or good or about what should be done
or believed.
Assertions are backed by reasons (R)
○ Reasons (R) are statements of support for assertions, making those claims
something more than mere opinions. Reasons can be linked to
assertions with the word because.
Assertions and reasons are supported by evidence (E)
○ Evidence (E) supports the reasons offered and helps compel audiences
to accept the assertion. Evidence answers challenge to the reasons
given and can include examples, case studies, narratives, statistics,
testimony, eyewitness accounts, and expert opinions.
Additional Questions to Consider as you analyze:
What is the difference between opinion, fact, and belief?
What are memes and how are they important in our culture today?
What is an assertion? Reasoning? Evidence?
Assignment Directions:
Part One:
(These can be in complete sentences.)
1. Name some of their favorite social media sites.
2. How does social media shape your identities?
3. Do you feel like your online person IRL (in real life) is the same as the image they
present on social media?
4. How do they feel about the accuracy of information they see on social media?
Part Two:
(Please construct one or two clear paragraphs for part two)
Instructor: K Magargal
1. Choose a meme and copy and paste to your document
2. Identify the assertion they think the meme is proposing. (Use detail here, be specific)
3. Construct the reason why the creator of the meme would make this assertion.
4. Conduct a bit research to see if you can uncover credible evidence to support the
message of the meme. Cite all sources.
5. Once completed, consider what is the opposite message of the assertion? Try to find
evidence to support the opposite message of the original assertion. Can it be done?
6. Articulate the differences between belief, opinion, and fact.
7. For a meme to provoke critical thinking it should make a good argument, not simply
express an opinion or belief. It should make an assertion that is backed by reason and
evidence
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