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Malcolm Gladwell's book, David & Goliath, will be used as the anchor text in the course's first unit on argumentation. The objective of the unit is for students to understand an author's claim, evidence, and line of reasoning. Gladwell's book is an especially good fit because it meets all the criteria we set for a new book purchase. First, Gladwell's text is clearly written in the argumentative mode. Students need the first major text of the year to be more explicit in its argument. As the year advances, they can handle more implicit arguments. Second, the book is uplifting in its theme. Especially after learning in a pandemic, students could use a text that inspires. The book will help set a positive tone for the year. Finally, the book touches on diverse issues, such as civil rights and learning disabilities. Thus, it will have broad appeal to students of various backgrounds. The major activities the class will undertake include mapping Gladwell's argument, researching supplementary information, engaging in Socratic Seminars, and writing an argumentative essay. The topics Gladwell covers in his book, such as sports, college admission, and entrepreneurship, offer something of interest for virtually every student. Gladwell's David & Goliath is a timely, engaging, and well-crafted anchor text to start the year.
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