ARGUMENT Essay

For this essay, choose a topic from the Gale resource on Opposing Viewpoints and write a 4-5 page essay that argues a clearly defined position about that topic. The essay should have an introduction that has a clear thesis statement and demonstrates the relevance of your topic, several body paragraphs that each make focused claims, and a conclusion. 

Essay should INCLUDE:

1. An interesting and informative title
2. A clearly stated thesis in the introduction that articulates your position and what you want to argue in your paper.
3. Logical and clear reasons supporting your argument
4. A document formatted in correct MLA format
5. 5 sources (peer-reviewed journals, books, and reliable web sources)
6. One of your sources must disagree with your argument and be used to create a counterargument. A counterargument occurs when you show what the opposing side claims and then refutes that side. For instance, if I am arguing that public schools should require children to be vaccinated unless a documented medical reason prohibits vaccination, then I might cite a source that argues that vaccinations are dangerous. I would show one or two main reasons the source gives and then show why those reasons are invalid as I prove my point about the need for vaccines.
7. A refutation of opposing arguments (in the counterargument)
8. A synthesis of sources; do not simply summarize your source material, but show how they are connected and respond to them.
9. A works cited page in MLA format with corresponding in-text citations. The works cited page should be included in the same document as your essay.

Choose your topic from the Gale Opposing Viewpoints database: http://ic.galegroup.com.dcccd.idm.oclc.org/ic/ovic/?p=OVIC&u=txshracd2500

Potential topics

• U.S. Borders (Emigration & Immigration)
• Immigration
• Civil Rights
• Popular Culture
• Culture of Beauty
• Celebrity Culture
• Renewable Energy
• Animal Experimentation
• Technology & Education
• Vaccines
• Privacy
• Criminal Justice
• Millennial Generation
• Genetically Modified Foods
• Social Media
• Video Games