Argumentative Essay 1000Words

Argumentative Essay Assignment

In at least 1000 words (up to 1200 is acceptable), you will write a 5-paragraph (or more) argumentative essay on a current controversial topic of your choice. (Choose the topic of the most personal interest to you since you’ll be thinking and writing about this issue for the next two weeks!)

For your selected topic, you will present the issue and take a position (= express an opinion) about it. You will develop an argument to convince the reader that your position is correct. For this reason, you will have to use evidence related to the topic (facts, statistics, quotations from experts, etc). You will use at least 3 sources. You may NOT use Wikipedia. Only original sources in English (not translated by you or an Internet translation engine) are allowed.

Proper usage of in-text citations, paraphrasing, and a Works Cited page following MLA style is mandatory. By reading various academic texts connected to your topic, you will develop critical thinking skills (e.g., asking complex questions; making inferences, analyzing, applying, synthesizing, and evaluating information gathered from observation, experience, and reflection).

Organization: Your essay must have an introduction that starts with a hook, background information that presents both sides of the issue, a clear thesis statement which expresses your position and 3 supporting ideas. The body of the essay should contain at least 3 paragraphs (which clearly present your arguments to support the thesis statement by using evidence in the form of facts, statistics, observation, experience, and reflection on the information mentioned before). Your essay must include at least one counterargument and effectively refute (rebut) it. The conclusion (which restates the thesis, summarizes the presented arguments, and gives a warning, prediction, or suggestion for the future) should be interesting and memorable.

Your essay must display unity and coherence.

Make sure to use correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting ( see Essay Formatting under modules, Canvas).

Finally and very importantly, use sources ethically and avoid plagiarism at all costs. Remember to CITE the source and use the strategies for source use: Quoting, Paraphrasing, or Summarizing that we have practiced in class.

Assignment Timeline[footnoteRef:1] [1: Make your Writing Center appointments now. ]

Brainstorming (in-class) – Friday, Nov. 17

Extended Outline and First draft (in-class writing) – Monday, Nov. 20

Draft 1 – Due, Monday, Nov 27

Bring 1 hard copy to class for Peer Review and in-class instructor feedback.

Draft 2 – Due Wednesday, Nov. 20

Conferences – Friday and Monday, Dec. 1 – 4

Final Draft – Friday, Dec. 8