Out-of-Class Essay 2: Argument with Research

Background:

The Argument Essay: An argument is an essay that takes a clear position on a controversial issue and offers specific evidence to support a main claim (also known as thesis). However, before you can write an argument, you need to form your own opinion on the topic. Then you need to articulate your position in a clear, focused unified thesis. Once you have established your position, you need to prove the reasons (points) and give evidence that support your points. An effective argument also often considers opposing viewpoints (counter-arguments), showing the reader why those arguments are not persuasive or making a small concession to the opposition. Remember that a good argument does not have to persuade every reader. A good argument is successful if it prompts readers to re-examine their own thinking.

Your writing task: In an essay of FIVE-SIX and HALF FULL PAGES (NO MORE, NO LESS), with a works cited page attached (not included in page count) , you should answer the following essay question:

Argumentative Evaluation Essay question: One of the main arguments in The Narcissism Epidemic is that although it is a competitive world, an individual should be successful without developing narcissistic qualities. Is this argument realistic? (As you consider your stance, you might think about if there are there instances where having narcissistic qualities might make you more successful in life.) Take a strong stance!

In addition to using The Narcissism Epidemic (which you must), you must also conduct outside research (4 additional outside sources—2 sources may come from unit 1 scholarly sources, 1 NEW source must come from our library’s article database, or you can get 3 new sources from our library’s database, 1 source may come from the internet, but make sure to examine the credibility of it).

*Thus, in total, in addition to The Narcissism Epidemic, you must use 3 scholarly sources and at minimum, you must find 1 on your own. 1 source may be internet only (Whitbourne’s article, though credible, would still be considered an internet only source as it is not peer-reviewed). 4 total researched outside sources.

Personal Observation as Research:

You may include your personal observations/experiences and/or the experiences of friends or relatives (an interview would get great information from a friend of relative) to support your ideas about the impact of narcissistic qualities on individual success. However, you should not let personal evidence take over this paper. Limit yourself to one paragraph at the most.

Essay Requirements:

· An introduction with an engaging hook, any necessary context, and a unified thesis statement that clearly states your central argument.

· Well-developed paragraphs, at least 4 body paragraphs, (within the TEEAS framework) with clear topic sentences, all of which make the love connection to your thesis.

· Textual evidence—Keep in mind the different ways you can present evidence! (correct use of MLA citation!)

· Lots of analysis within your body paragraphs which clarifies the significance of your evidence to your points.

· *You must weave in counter-argumentation as this is an argument essay.

· A conclusion strategy of your choice. But do make sure to make meaning!

· Transitions: You must use logical transitions to connect ideas between and within paragraphs.

· Evidence of careful proofreading (no more than four errors per page!)

· Careful MLA documentation—internally and in a works cited page. Worth 5% of essay grade.