pg. 100 1-4

1. Yes, Spriggs has convinced me that buying local is a topic that matters. But, I am biased on this subject because growing up, my family has always tried to buy local when we can. Spriggs, however convinces the audience that this is a topic that matters by explaining the economical and ecological benefits to supporting local farms-strenghtening local economies, small farms are typically more sustainable than larger farms, shipping food across the country is expensive financially and ecologically.

2. Spriggs addresses the counterargument that buying locally can have negative environmental effects, in particular Alex Avery's claim that  "buy food from the world region where it grows best." Spriggs acknowledged this by saying that he makes a good point (which shows she is fair and reasonable, strengthening her credibility) and says that buying local should be buying as much locally as possible. She also addresses the claim that buying locally is detrimental to the environment because small farms are not as efficient. Spriggs says this is a misconception and provides evidence (small farms are more efficient in total output of all crops) for support.

3. I think the section of the essay from "Not only are small farms a more sustainable..." (pg. 96) to "The environmental benefits now, and in the long run of buying local outweigh any such immediate disadvantages." (pg. 98) is the most effective section. Spriggs incorporates all of the genre features from page 66. She has an explicit position (we should buy local!) and supports it in an authoritative tone with sufficient evidence. For example, small farms are more sustainable, and have less financial and ecological burdens. Spriggs also addresses her counterarguments (as discussed in question 2)  in this section, which strengthens her credibility. She appeals to readers values here as well, because who wouldn't want to help their environment and support their community's economy.

4. First of all, the pictures help break up the text since it is lengthy. But, also, they give the reader visuals related to what they are reading about, which help support Spriggs's argument.