ASSIGNMENT: Using your outline and annotated bibliography from Touchstones 1.2 and Touchstone 2.2, draft a 6-8 page argumentative research essay on your chosen persuasive topic.
As this assignment builds on Touchstone 2.2: Create an Annotated Bibliography, that Touchstone must be graded before you can submit your persuasive proposal draft.
A. Assignment Guidelines
DIRECTIONS: Your persuasive proposal should include your persuasive thesis statement, involve argument development, and incorporate research. Remember that this topic addresses a problem or issue in your community or workplace. Refer to your feedback from the previous touchstones to aid you in composing this assignment.
Keep in mind: Refer to the list below throughout the writing process. Do not submit your Touchstone until it meets these guidelines.
Persuasive Thesis Statement
❒ Have you included a thesis in your introduction 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 persuasive argument supported using rhetorical appeals and source material?
❒ Does the organization contain an adequate number of body paragraphs with topic sentences, a body paragraph addressing counterargument(s), and a conclusion with a concluding statement?
❒ Is your essay 6-8 pages (approximately 1500-2000 words)? If not, which details do you need to add or remove?
Research
❒ Have you cited outside sources effectively using quotation, summary, or paraphrase techniques using APA formatting?
❒ Are the sources incorporated smoothly, providing the reader with signal phrases and context for the source information?
❒ Have you referenced a range of at least 7 credible sources?
❒ Have you properly cited your sources according to APA style guidelines?
❒ Have you included an APA style reference page below your essay?
B. Reflection Questions Guidelines
DIRECTIONS: Below your assignment, include answers to all of the following reflection questions.
Provide one example of a place where you have used rhetorical appeals or source material to support your argument. How does this enhance your essay? (2-3 sentences)
Touchstone 4 is a revision of this draft. What kind of feedback would be helpful for you as you revise? Are there parts of your draft that you’re uncertain of? (3-4 sentences)
Keep in mind: Refer to the list below throughout the reflection process. Do not submit your Touchstone until it meets these guidelines.
❒ Have you answered all reflection questions thoughtfully and included insights, observations, and/or examples in all responses?
❒ Are your answers included on a separate page below the main assignment?
