Essay #2 Project Web

Purpose        

                       To take a stand and formulate a thesis concerning an issue about food

                       To use a website OR blog to analyze and share information about your issue

                       To support your thesis with convincing reasons

                       To provide development and support for your ideas, including embedded links

                       To demonstrate your understanding of essay structure

                       To learn to conduct research and correctly use MLA citation 

 Readings

                        Articles from reputable web sites, editorials from major newspapers (L.A. Times, New York Times, Washington Post) or periodicals (Newsweek, Time, Atlantic Monthly), or news websites (CNN, MSNBC, ABC, CBS) and online databases (Lexis/Nexis, Infotrac, EbscoHost). 

Background

This assignment requires you to take a stand on one issue about food—where or how it is grown, processed, manufactured, prepared, distributed, packed, advertised, or sold.   You have been asking questions about the issues raised in your readings, in class discussions, and other media.  It is time now to focus on one issue that interests you.  You will then research the issue, develop a thesis about it, create a website or blog about the issue with at least six embedded entries, then construct a persuasive essay supporting your ideas. You must include a consideration of the opposition.  The issue must be debatable and have reasonable opinions on both sides. You are to use your website or blog to search and report on the best sources for your topic.

Proposal

You will write a short (one paragraph) proposal about your issue, typed, and double-spaced.  This proposal will include your issue, a tentative thesis, a brief background, and the web creation site you will be using. If you need some suggestions, please see me early in the process for help choosing your issue. This proposal will be handed in on Monday, March 3.  (Lose 50 points if not turned in.)

Writing Task

Once you have learned as much as you can about this issue, respond to the following question in a well-argued essay:

Where do you stand on this issue and why?

This essay will be constructed as an academic argument and therefore should be well reasoned, supported with logic-based evidence, and balanced through the consideration of the opposing viewpoint.  Preparation for this essay must include at least six embedded sources that you have discussed on your site.  The essay should be oriented toward a general, academic audience.

Essay

Be sure your essay contains all of the following points:

1.                  A title that represents your perspective of the situation or problem that is addressed in your essay.

2.                  A strong introduction that indicates what your essay’s position is, what your argument is, and why you think it is important.

3.                  A summary of the perspective of the outside sources you are quoting, especially the parts you agree and disagree with.

4.                  Substantial evidence that serves to convince the reader you are correct.  Make sure the outside sources corroborating your position are reliable and credible.

5.                  A clear counter-argument and refutation of this argument

6.                  At least six pertinent, direct, quotes with links to reputable outside sources.

7.                  A strong conclusion that wraps up your perspective in a manner that allows your reader to understand your opinion.

8.                  Appropriate and credited use of illustrations such as video, photos, cartoons, etc.

9.                  Posted on your website or blog before class on the due date.

When you compose an argument you should write with a skeptical reader in mind.  Offer logical arguments backed with the best evidence, testimony, and authority you can find.

This is a formal essay of 1000-1200 words.  Multiple drafts and revisions are mandatory.  Proper MLA format (as best you can do on your web site or blog).  

You will be expected to post a link to your website or blog on Moodle by class time, Monday, March 10.

Remember:  No late posting, including proposal, will be accepted