Assignment: Write an essay that argues a position on an issue with distinct opposing ideas. Engage in an argument concerning an issue that has not been resolved–especially a problem with multiple viewpoints. For example, consider a reporter going to the scene of a car accident, interviewing six different witnesses, and getting six different perspectives. It happens. That is why research/evidence comes into play. However, you must take a stance in this paper, consider at least one opposing argument, then come back and describe where your viewpoint is more solid, especially if your perspective can lead to a resolution, compromise, or “call to action.” Examine the different issues of the argument: objections, questions, and opposing viewpoints. Then state your position clearly. The essay’s objective is to convince those who disagree with you that they must take seriously the question you raise. Furthermore, you will illustrate parts of your argument with a visual (graph, illustration, chart, etc.) within the textual document of your creation. Make a pie chart, graph, or more using Word (just a suggestion), and research that you encounter. Be certain not to end your paper with a conclusion that poses another argument that you have not discussed in your paper. For example, if you write a paper concerning the use of bump-stocks on guns in the United States, do not not put in a last line stating: “At least Canada has the right idea.” What idea? Where? You do not want to leave the reader confused. Instead your conclusion should lead back to your introduction in adding a bit more punch to your own stance and why it is the best solution. In addition, the use of bump stocks is so new that you may not be able to produce a paper on the issue by using academic sources. Using current websites will not do. However, you can check on previous history and second amendment rights. You will be permitted to choose your topic within certain limits. You will be working on this topic for several weeks; so, pick something in which you are interested. Although you will be talking about an established issue, stay away from over-worked issues like the drinking age, abortion, (when life begins) AIDs, college pregnancy, or euthanasia. These are topics for much longer papers. You’ll be trying to avoid a topic that takes an ethical or moral position, or a position arguing whether something is simply right or wrong. Can’t think of a topic? Try to stay at the local or state level to create a workable topic, something that appeals to your personal interests. Be creative. Possible topics include: What are the benefits/consequences of distributing condoms to high school students? Does requiring students to wear school uniforms benefit academic achievement? Is it fair to be required to take a university general education course that you will never use in your major–what are other universities doing about this? Why is reality TV so despised or admired? Should women 18 years and younger be required to get permission from their parents to have an abortion? (Note that this last example does not take an ethical position on abortion itself, but instead would focus on the legality, strengths, and weaknesses of requiring the girls to get permission.) These are just a few suggestions and you are not forced to use these. If you are stuck, look through our textbook, A Time Traveler’s Guide to Rhetoric, and review the essays you liked. Why did you like these essays? What is the larger argument being made? Can you apply this argument to a current issue in your community, state, or country at large? If you can, then this might be your topic! MLA format of the page Correct page header with page number Correct spacing Correct margins Correct Assignment Heading (your name, instructor’s name, class, and date) Correct font and cpi (Times New Roman, 12 cpi) Visual component Use of four required sources Academic book #1 Academic book #2 Academic article/essay Academic website In-text citations for use of all-source information
