Analytical Argument Essay | Printer-friendly version
Objectives
In successfully completing this assignment, you will be able to:
- Form a persuasive argument
- Explain and substantiate a short written argument
1. Pick one of these following topics to write about:
- Should there be a speed limit?
- Should a person have to be 18 to buy cigarettes?
- Is it morally right to download music off of the internet?
- Should students have to take classes outside their major?
- Should cameras be allowed at concerts?
2. Write a few sentences about the topic you chose and why you chose it on your Blogger by midnight Friday, Jan. 23. This should include what side you are taking, and some thoughts on it. It can be a freewriting of sorts because I will not look at it for spelling, grammar, etc. However, it MUST be about your topic!
3. Think about what reasons you want to write about for your argument. I recommend you limit your reasons to two, since the paper has a word limit of 600-900 words. Once you decide on your reasons, sketch out a rough outline. The outline that is due at classtime on Wednesday, Jan. 28 will be very basic. It will consist of a thesis statement and statements of reasons, arranged in outline format which includes the intro/conclusion roman numerals.
Formatting will be:
Thesis Statement:
I. Introduction
II. [Your First Statement of Reason]
III. [Your Statement of Your Next Reason]
IV.[Your Statement of Your Next Reason (if applicable)]
V. Conclusion
4. Write a short paper containing an introductory paragraph with a clear thesis statement, body paragraphs with support for at least two reasons, and a conclusion paragraph. Title it something creative. It should be cohesive, focused, and well-organized.
5. A Rough Draft will be due on Monday, Feb. 2 by classtime. This draft should contain all the required elements, including length requirement. We will peer edit them in class on Wednesday.
- Pick the topic you have the most to say about, and pick it BEFORE you look for your source.
- Decide your thesis first, your reasons second. Decide now if you want to do two reasons or three (two is the MINIMUM). All of these must be clearly stated!
- It is often easiest to simply write one paragraph for each reason; however, you may write more if you wish - just not less.
- Use transitions
- The title should make what side you're on clear - don't ask questions in your title or call it "Assignment #1"
- Don't forget to put your name in a heading!
- Remember that everything must be connected with logical reasoning and explanation, from support to reason to argument/thesis.
Assignment Requirements
How well you meet these requirements determines your grade. A good persuasive essay will:
- Have a clearly stated thesis statement in the introduction
- Have an introduction which leads smoothly into the body
- Have clearly stated reasons
- Have direct explanation of why those reasons prove that your argument makes sense
- Have logical connections between points
- Have clear, logical organization and transitioning
- Be focused - everything must go towards proving your thesis!
Due Dates:
Friday, Jan. 23 at midnight: Blogger Entry for Topic Due (5 pts)
Wednesday, Jan. 28 by classtime: Basic Outline Due (15 pts)
Monday , Feb. 2 by classtime: Rough Draft Due (25 pts)
Monday, Feb. 9 by classtime: Final Draft Due (105 pts)Maximum Total Score: 150 pts.