Writing Homework

Paper Four

A classical argument consists of the following parts: Introduction, narration, confirmation, refutation and concession, and summation. Of these parts, you are probably most familiar with the conventions of the introduction, confirmation (body), and summation (conclusion). The parts that might cause you to pause, however, are the narration and refutation and concession. The narration section tells the background (or story) on the issue. The narration will give your reader the information needed to jump into the proof you are presenting in your thesis. The refutation and concession is the section in which you build some common ground but more importantly, it is the section in which you foresee and undercut the arguments on the other side.

The final paper is not necessarily a classical argument; however, your final paper should have the elements of this type of writing. Remember, logos, pathos, and ethos? And it is always necessary to present background and know your foes and alternate viewpoints. Research is needed as is the expression of understanding MLA format and citation style. We have covered a great deal in the past eight weeks and this document should represent your knowledge as well as the discernment of what tools and information to use and which to set aside (for the time-being).

So, while you are not required to write a classical argument, this final paper will need to show an awareness of this form more so than the other rhetorical modes that we have discussed. Modes are tools and you should be very comfortable in switching from one type to another in order to develop your point and support your thesis.

You may select any topic that you would like, but please remember that at the end of each chapter, there are paper suggestions. In addition, you could further research any of the topics that have been raised in our readings this term.

In any paper you must also be wary of logical fallacies. We hear and read logical fallacies all the time, and often, we do not even take note. However, in a paper with a strong thesis to support, you must be very careful not to compose an argument that becomes very easy to dissect and destroy. Your textbook discusses logical fallacies, but here are some links for further research.

http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/fallacies/

Basic Requirements:

*    5+ pages

*     Strong thesis that is well supported

*     MLA format and citation style

*     Three outside sources (hint: you can write on one of the debates in the text and use the readings as two of your sources)

*     Participation in peer response

Objectives:

· Rigorous investigation and inquiry

· Engagement with opposing sides

· Incorporation and analysis of multiple outside sources

· Thesis worthy of debate

· Thorough citation