They Say, I Say #1

In the first chapter of They Say, I Say by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein, the importance of laying out not only your argument, but also the opposing argument. The example given is a sociologist speaking about Dr. X’s good work in their field. They give examples, quote passages, and going into detail of their work. Although their argument is clear, Dr. X and their work is important, but why was this point being made? In the chapter “They Say”, the importance of stating the opposing argument along with your argument is to make a point. This helps the audience understand the importance of whatever the topic is.

The second chapter, “Her Point Is”, digs into the importance of summarizing. It states how it’s important to summarize the ideas you are essentially arguing or proving against and how to go about doing so. Different ways to write a good summary include removing yourself to remove bias, give a fair amount of information on the topic, and not rushing to your own opinion. The summary may also give your own argument direction by pointing out not only the original writer’s point, but to yours as well. This chapter also explains different ways to summarize with the opposing argument, such as listing the two together and itemizing ideas.

In “As He Himself Puts It”, the third chapter in They Say, I Say, the art of quoting is introduced. When using quotes, it’s important to not over use or be completely devoid. Quoting should be used when it adds to the paragraph and supports your argument, not forming a paragraph around the quote. This chapter also explains that quotes require framing and cannot be left to dangle in the paragraph. Quotes always include in-text citations as well and need to be cited in the bibliography as well.

What I Learned: Before reading, I didn’t realize how important it is to not only state your own arguments, but the opposing argument as well. It makes sense, because it convinces the reader or audience of your own side.