After reading through chapter 8, compose your own short persuasive argument by writing a letter of complaint. Use the following steps (from an earlier edition of Mayfield's text, the 8th edition published in 2010):

1. Think of a situation that is relevant to you, perhaps a real complaint that you would like to write, but were unsure about the best way to write it. Protect individual identities by using fake names.

2. Address the letter to a specific person who would have the power to do something about the situation.

3. Use neutral, descriptive, and non-blaming language; describe the situation, why you believe it is unfair, and what you want the person to do as a remedy.

4. Ask for a response of some kind - a conversation, phone call, agreement, and provide a timeline for this to take place.

5. Use reasoning and evidence to support your case that something should be done, as well as your specific request for what you would like done. The letter should be brief (no more than one page if possible).