This unit we have read essays covering a multitude of different topics interweaving current events and popular culture. We've examined the roles of modern technology and culture in social change, language and communication, the reception of news, and intellectualism. While examining these issues, many of the authors set up their essays as a response to claims about modern culture, directly addressing a specific conversation that is going on.
For your second essay we will be participating in the process of response much in the same way that many of our authors have by responding to one of the issues raised in this unit or a specific claim from one of the essays. As explained by the styles of response in Chapter 1 of "They Say I Say," you can enter into conversation with a direct statement from the essays, one of the standard views established by the authors, something you once thought about modern culture in these areas, something implied from the texts, or one of the debates ongoing with the essays. The important part is that you practice making your essay part of the conversation by directing responding to one of the various issues brought up in this unit with your own thoughts and opinions on whatever subject you choose.
Regardless of which avenue you choose, you will include at least ONE reference to one or more essays we have read and will make a clear judgment based on these evidences as to the value of the argument or issue. As always, pick a subject you care about and try to convince your audience of some central idea even if it is one that they may not be quick to agree with.