Fallacy Project (ELA 9-12)

Creating the Assignment

This assignment was created by Jamie Rominski, NBCT, from Yorkville High School. 

Title: Fallacies Project (ELA 9-12)

Instructions: In order to demonstrate your understanding of fallacies, you will apply your knowledge in a project of your choosing: a persuasive speech or an infomercial. You may work with up to two other people to complete this project or work independently. Choose wisely!

There are TWO components to this project: Writing and Presentation.

Written Portion Instructions: Choose between the speech or the infomercial.

Speech:

1. For the topic you chose the week before break, write a 3-5 paragraph persuasive speech.
   • Write an introduction with an attention-getter, background information (why it is an issue), and a thesis.
   • In the body, include at least THREE different types of informal fallacies.
   • Use the research you already completed to help you generate an argument. If you directly cite or paraphrase a source, make sure you cite it correctly and include a works cited page.
   • Write a conclusion that includes a transition, a review of the main points, and an impression (leave us with something to think about).
   • Use upper-level vocabulary and be formal. However, you may use first and second person if you like. 
   • Use MLA format to type up your speech. Include the correct headers, a title, etc.
   • HIGHLIGHT AND LABEL the different forms of fallacies.

    OR

Infomercial:

1. Begin by choosing a product or service.
   • It can be a real-life product/service or a new one that you create.
2. Write a script that focuses on persuading a group of people to buy your product/service. (Watch this video as an example.)
   • Write an introduction with an attention-getter. Describe the situation that people need help solving. Then introduce your product or service. 
   • In the body, explain how your product or service will help them to solve the problem. Include THREE different types of informal fallacies in your script. Emphasize specific features that make it so.
   • Include details of the cost and how to purchase your product or service.
   • Write a conclusion that includes a transition, a review of the main points, and a final persuasive statement or slogan.
   • Use specific words that showcase your product or service. Avoid generic words like good, great, wonderful, etc. 
   • Use MLA format to type up your infomercial. Include the correct headers, a title, etc.
   • HIGHLIGHT AND LABEL the different forms of fallacies.

Presentation Portion Instructions: 

Record your speech or infomercial. 

To Turn in Your Work:

1. Turn in your video and written portion to Canvas. If you are working with others, you can turn in just one, but make sure that everyone’s name is on the document.
2. All materials should be submitted on the due date.

Tips and pointers:

• Start by reviewing the different types of fallacies.
• Watch a few commercials/infomercials for help.
• Choose the fallacies that seem to relate to your product/service.
• Divide the presentation equally amongst all members. 
• PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!

Fallacy Project Rubric

TOTAL:___/75

Recording Type: Screen and microphone 

Example Submit Assignment: https://app.screencastify.com/record/p08Pr9uVKONFkx6I5NU19

Sharing the Assignment with Students

If you use a website or LMS to share information with your students, you could display the following directions: