This assignment is meant to develop and hone your research skills. This paper will exemplify your abilities to choose your sources, use research, and incorporate them into your discussion effectively. Choose a topic to research and write argumentatively about. This is a general prompt, so take care to focus your topic on something manageable. Choose a topic you’re interested in and form your argument based on your research. Your argument should illustrate the body of knowledge that already exists, and what new/different argument/analysis you are adding to the conversation. Present yourself as a reliable source by citing your information, analyzing the material, and synthesizing logical conclusions from your investigation. In order to do this, you must choose the best 4 sources (at minimum) that you can find. Make sure to choose articles that also counter your point of view, which demonstrates that you are well-informed and aware of the topic’s multiple perspectives.
Some points to consider:
– Use reliable sources for your research of the topic, but also think about the other areas of research such as psychology, sociology, history, or politics that are related.
– Demonstrate why this topic is important, and why there has been controversy surrounding the issue. What is the topic’s significance to you?
– Refrain from taking on too large of an argument; rather, choose a specific facet or element of an argument to make the topic more manageable.
– Do research before forming a hypothesis to remain open to many possible arguments.
– Arguments should be complex, this is what makes them interesting. Why aren’t the reasons for, or against your argument cut and dry?
– Sources should not be more than 10 years old in order to ensure your perspective of the issue is current.
*Refrain from these topics: legalization of marijuana, abortion, and same-sex marriage (unless you are going to discuss the current legalization of it). These topics have been overdone, so please choose a different topic.
This paper is to be in MLA format; size 12 font in Times (New Roman); double spaced; black ink;
minimum of 2,000 words minimum (not including the text from the works cited page)- 2,250 words maximum;
minimum of four (max of five) credible sources cited in MLA format on the works cited page.
The first full draft of at least 1,000 words for peer review is due by Monday, April 25th by 11:59 pm to Canvas.
The final version of your 2,000-word (minimum) essay is due by Monday, May 9th by 11:59 pm to Canvas. Please note that late submissions for this essay will not be accepted; no exceptions.
