persuasive essay

ENGLISH 100-992

Writing Assignment #2

DUE: 10:00pm on October 27

TOPIC:

Write a persuasive essay of 1,200-1,500 words in which you will try to persuade your reader to accept your point of view on a controversial subject that matters to you and that is both current and relevant. You may choose your own topic.

Make sure you choose a topic that is debatable. For example, the statement, “We must eliminate all child abuse from society” is not debatable. No one is likely to take a stand for child abuse. As well, make sure your topic has two clear sides to it. The legalization of marijuana is a good topic because one could develop a good argument for either perspective: the Canadian government made a good decision when it legalized pot OR the Canadian government made a mistake when it legalized pot.

Once you have chosen your topic, research both sides of the argument. After analyzing your material, choose a side: your stand on this issue will become your thesis.

Keep in mind that a research paper follows the same writing process as any other writing: thinking, organizing, writing, and revising. However, instead of relying entirely on yourself for ideas, you use other sources to help you develop your ideas and support your arguments. Nonetheless, it is your paper, and your voice should be in control. Avoid the temptation to pile up quotes; sources should clearly support your idea.

You can use Google to help you with your research. For your final draft, follow the MLA format.

NOTE: You must use at least five sources; a minimum of three of these will consist of newspaper or magazine articles, essays published in scholarly journals, or books that you locate in your library research.

Pay attention to your tone. You are likely to have strong opinions, and you may well be better informed on the topic than your reader(s); however, you never want to talk down to your reader or adopt a sarcastic tone. The best way to move your reader is to show respect for her or him by presenting a strong, clear argument.