ASSIGNMENT: Write a 4-6 page (approximately 1000-1500 word)
argumentative essay using the classical model supported by evidence and
research.
A. Instructions
Remember the word “argument” does not mean a fight in a
writing context. An academic argument is more like a thoughtful conversation
between two people with differing viewpoints on a debatable issue. However,
you are required to take a position on one side of the issue.
In order to foster learning and growth, all essays you submit must be newly
written specifically for this course. Any recycled work will be sent back with
a 0, and you will be given one attempt to redo the touchstone.
Your submission must include an APA style reference page
following the essay. In your research, you will need 2-4 credible primary or
secondary sources to use as support in your essay.
On a separate page, below your reference page, include
thoughtful answers to the Think About Your Writing questions. References and
Think About Your Writing questions are NOT included in the word count for this
essay.
B. Think About
Your Writing
Below your reference page, include answers to all of the
following reflection questions.
1. What have you learned about how to present a strong
argument? How could/will you apply this knowledge in your professional or
everyday life (3-4 sentences)? Sophia says: Think about the specific
skills and techniques that you used while developing and writing your essay.
What tools will you take with you from this experience?
2. Consider the English Composition I course as a whole.
What have you learned about yourself as a writer (5-6 sentences)? Sophia
says: What did you learn that surprised you? Is there anything that you have
struggled with in the past that you now feel more confident about?
C.
Argumentative Essay Guidelines
Refer to the checklist below throughout the writing process.
Do not submit your research essay until it meets these guidelines.
Argumentative
Topic and Thesis Statement
❒ Have you included a thesis
that takes a clear, specific position on one side of a debatable issue?
Argument Development
❒ Are all of the details
relevant to the purpose of your essay?
❒ Is the argument supported using rhetorical appeals
and source material?
❒ Is your essay 4-6 pages (approximately 1000-1500
words)? If not, which details do you need to add or delete?
Research
❒ Have you cited outside sources
effectively using quotation, summary, or paraphrase?
❒ Are the sources incorporated smoothly, providing
the reader with signal phrases and context for the source information?
❒ Have you referenced a range of 2-4 credible
sources?
❒ Have you included an APA style reference page below
your essay?
Organization and Flow
❒ Is there an introduction,
conclusion, adequate body paragraphs, and a counterargument?
❒ Is the argument presented in a logical order and
easy for the reader to follow?
❒ Are there transitions within and between
paragraphs?
Style
❒ Are the word choices accurate
and effective?
❒ Are the sentence structures varied?
Conventions and
Formatting
❒ Have you properly cited your
sources according to APA style guidelines?
❒ Have you double-checked for correct grammar,
punctuation, spelling, formatting, and capitalization?
❒ Have you proofread for typos?
Before You Submit
❒ Have you answered all of the
Think About Your Writing questions on a separate page below your reference
page? Are your answers thoughtful and included insights, observations, and/or
examples in all responses?
❒ Does your submission include your essay, followed
by your reference page, followed by your Think About Your Writing questions?
E. Requirements
The essay should be 4-6 pages (approximately 1000-1500 words
in length
Argumentative Essay Guidelines must be followed or
submission will not be graded
Double-space the essay and use 1-inch margins
Use a readable 12-point font
All writing must be appropriate for an academic context
Composition must be original and written for this assignment
Plagiarism of any kind is strictly prohibited
Submission should include your name, the name of the course,
the date, and the title of your composition
Your submission must include the essay, reference page, and
your answers to the refection questions
Submit a single file only, including all assignment
components
Acceptable file formats include .doc and .docx.