Questions and Topics We Can Help You To Answer: 

Write a good summary of Darwin’s concept of natural selection, one that shows both what Darwin argues and how he argues. 

In your summary, you must identify Darwin’s purpose in writing his text and the main point of his argument. You must also discuss the kinds of support and strategies he uses to back up his argument. How does Darwin attempt to persuade his reader of the validity of his argument? What types of evidence does he present to support his claim? How does he use the rhetorical appeals of logos, ethos, and pathos? How does he address objections readers may have? 

Avoid listing ideas or main points. Instead, work to connect these ideas in your writing, showing how they present a coherent theory. Use examples and at least 2 well-chosen quotations from the text to illustrate your summary of Darwin’s argument. Be selective in the examples and details you choose, however; incorporate only what is most important and compelling to summarizing the text well. Be careful not to “pad” your response with excessive quotation.