Argumentative Essay

Argumentative Essay

Assignment: Write an argumentative essay based on Lani Guinier’s The Tyranny of the Majority reflecting a collegiate level of insight. You will choose one of the topic questions below to develop an argument you can defend using Guinier’s essay. You may use one outside source to support your argument, but it is not required. Your essay must be three pages in length, plus a work cited page (for a total of four pages). Essays must be typed and double-spaced, using 12 pt. font. The final essay is due Thursday, October 16th.

Topic Questions:

· What does “fairness” mean in American politics?

· What are the problems with Guinier’s “turn-taking” approach?

· Why is Majority Rule fair and/or effective?

· What is another area where the ‘Tyranny of the Majority’ occurs?

To Review:

· Your thesis should be a debatable claim

· Defend your argument clearly, providing ample evidence to support your thesis

· Avoid misrepresenting or trivializing the opposing position

· Organize and develop your argument in a thoughtful, logical manner

· May use one outside source

· Use MLA documentation style

Schedule : We will be turning in parts of the essay as we build toward the final due date. The schedule is as follows:

· Thursday, September 25: Essay Topic Due

· Tuesday, October 7: Two Copies of First Draft Due

· Thursday, October 16: One copy of Final Essay Due

Grading: This assignment is worth 10% of the final class grade and will be graded by the instructor for content and grammar. I will be looking for your ability to state and develop your argument clearly. The final essay is due Friday, October 16th.

The first draft counts as an Informal Writing assignment, which cumulatively total 10% of your final class grade. Full credit will be given for the first draft if you bring in the correct number of copies on the due date and participate in the peer review.