ENGL 1711 03

Argumentative Research Paper First Steps for Drafting

What is the first step I should take to start this paper?  So much of starting a research paper (or any paper) is dependent on your level of understanding the topic you chose to write about. Up to this point, your papers haven’t required you to do any background reading because you and your own experiences were the topic.  Even though it’s great that you now know something about the topic of your argumentative research paper, it is most important that you spend time reading the available example papers and the content items for week seven that talk about what this type of paper involves.  Additionally, you have to spend considerable time reading articles in databases that sometimes will not be 100% useful for your paper. 

 

I tried to break down tasks for this process, but everyone is at a slightly different point in doing the final paper. However, if you’re stuck, try doing one or more of the following suggested exercises. 

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·       You should read the examples of argumentative research papers that are now in the content section.  

·       Read or re-read the first ten pages of chapter 18 to more fully understand the argument aspect of the paper.  Many people focus on the word ARGUMENT when hearing about this type of paper.  When you argue, you are usually feeling strongly about your side.  You are trying to get other people to see your point, frequently without considering their side. An argument paper tries to present the writer’s position, but also knows and is able to present the other side too in a fair and reasonable way. 

·       Through your time spent on the “Opposing Viewpoints” database, you have already found a topic you would like to write about.  You may have chosen one from the list of past topics too. 

·       Use your research to help narrow and define your focus. Throughout your reading and discovery about the topic, you might change direction or even decide you’re supporting something you initially thought you were against.  Being open to reading about and understanding both sides of your topic will give you a better paper in the long run.

·       Each time you read an article try to summarize and paraphrase it.  Take careful notes on each article.  See if you can explain to yourself how the main ideas of that article could be used to explain your topic in more detail, support your side of the argument, or demonstrate the other side.

·       Try to ask questions about your topic.  What is the main thing you are trying to discover about it? 

·       If you are getting stuck finding sources in “Opposing Viewpoints,” search in another database, either from the ones in our class’s library page or from the A-Z list of library databases. 

·       Reach out to me or a librarian for assistance in doing searches.