Assignment

Writing Assignment #2: Comparison/Contrast Argument

1. In the selections from last week, you read two opposing views of human nature. Mencius argued that humankind was basically good, while Hsun Tzu proposed the opposite and argued that mankind was essentially evil. Write an argument in which you compare and contrast the two positions. The comparison/contrast must be argumentative, so you must take one position or the other and compare/contrast the two to demonstrate the validity of the position you choose. The finished final draft must be a minimum of three full pages in length. This means that your essay should end on page four or later.

2. At a minimum, your essay must demonstrate the following characteristics:

A. Contains a clear, concise thesis that is both arguable and purposeful

B. The essay must develop more than one point of comparison

C. You must provide sufficient evidence in the form of quotations and paraphrasing from both original essays to support your thesis

D. Your essay should be reasonably balanced between the subjects

3. Other requirements:

A. This essay requires a minimum of two secondary sources (the essays), and you must quote or paraphrase from each

B. The essay must be properly formatted in MLA, and you are expected to properly document your sources.

D. Your essay must be written using correct Standard English grammar and mechanics.

E. This is a formal argument and must be written in third person perspective and maintain a consistent point of view throughout.

4. Due to the simplicity of this assignment, you will not revise/rewrite this essay, so proofread carefully.