Assignment Instructions: Researched Argument Essay (35%)
ENGL 1302
Prof. Gonzalez
Spring 2022
Continuing with your semester topic, create a researched-argument essay using the Toulmin method.
The essay should be approximately ten pages, not including the list of works cited. You should have at
least five credible sources using library research.
This is a major assignment worth 35% of your overall grade.
It is due two weeks before final exam week. Late essays are accepted the week before final exams.
The Toulmin Method
The Toulmin method is one way of constructing an argument. It expands the classical argumentative
structure to include attention to warrants—those often unspoken assumptions underlying a claim—as
well as necessary elements such as qualifiers. Refer to the chapter on “Analyzing and Constructing
Arguments” in Everyone’s an Author for more information.
Narrative Introduction
I encourage you to incorporate a narrative introduction, but it’s not a requirement. This style of
introduction takes additional effort but engages readers more than a traditional academic introduction.
Sources
You should use at least five credible sources in your essay. By “credible,” I mean reputable sources that
are reliable, highly regarded, and trustworthy—they should be acceptable in a college setting. You may
use popular sources, but many of your sources should be scholarly. You may use the four sources from
your annotated bibliography, or you may find new sources. I recommend using the B.E.A.M. method for
ensuring you have sources to support you in various ways: background, evidence, argument, or method.
Documentation Style and Formatting
Document your sources and format your essay following academic standards. You may use MLA or APA
style. I recommend using at least one level of subheadings since this will be a longer essay, but it’s not a
requirement.
