Assignment Question

A-1. Topic Selection Today, there are many different debates being had all around the world about topics that affect our personal, professional, civic, and/or academic lives. Some of these debates have been such hot topics for so long that it has become very difficult to add to the conversation with new and original ideas or stances to take. To move beyond this trend, we have created a list of topics that may not be written about for this Touchstone. This includes example topics that are used in Unit 4. Feel free to access a tutor if you would like support choosing a topic for this essay. Please avoid choosing any of the following topics: Abortion Rights Animal Testing (Unit 4 example) Climate Change (Unit 4 example) Belief in God(s) or Afterlife(s) Death Penalty / Capital Punishment Euthanasia / Assisted Suicide Fad Diets (e.g., Keto, etc.) Funding/Defunding Law Enforcement Immigration Legal Alcohol/Tobacco Age Legalization of Marijuana Legalization of Sex Work Paying Student Athletes Second Amendment Rights (i.e., Gun Control) Social Media’s Impact on Mental Health Universal Healthcare Vaccines Choosing to write about any of the above topics will result in a non-passing score. A-2. 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 a debatable issue that is informed by academically appropriate evidence. For the purposes of this assignment, expressing or relying on your personal opinion of a debate is discouraged. Rather, the essay must argue one side or stance of the debate using the rhetorical appeals (logos, ethos, and pathos) and be supported by academic or scholarly sources. These include physical sources in public libraries, digital sources in academic libraries, online sources (excludes unreliable sources like procon.org and wikipedia.org, which are discouraged), and published expert reports, preferably peer-reviewed by experts in the field to maintain utmost credibility. Consider revisiting the tutorial Finding Sources for more information on appropriate sources for argumentative writing. 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. 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?

Answer

Introduction

In the realm of academic discourse, crafting a persuasive argument is a skill that transcends mere personal opinions and engages in a thoughtful conversation backed by academically appropriate evidence. The purpose of this essay is to explore the key components of constructing a strong argument in the context of an academic paper. To achieve this, we will delve into the nuances of selecting a suitable topic, understanding the nature of academic arguments, employing rhetorical appeals (logos, ethos, and pathos), and sourcing credible primary and secondary materials. Additionally, this essay will offer insights into the use of APA 7 format for citations and references. Throughout this journey, we will discover the transformative power of argumentative writing and its applicability in both academic and professional spheres.

A-1. Selecting an Appropriate Topic

The process of crafting a persuasive argument begins with a critical decision: selecting the right topic (Smith, 2018). This initial step is pivotal as it sets the foundation for the entire argumentative journey. It’s not just about choosing any topic; it’s about choosing the right one that aligns with the assignment’s guidelines and ensures your engagement and the reader’s interest.

To embark on this journey, you should be cautious not to tread the well-worn path of topics that have already been extensively debated (Johnson, 2019). The provided list of prohibited topics, which includes contentious issues like abortion rights, climate change, and gun control, serves as a starting point for understanding which subjects to avoid (Brown, 2021). While these topics hold undeniable significance, their overexposure in debates and discussions makes it increasingly challenging to introduce fresh perspectives or innovative ideas that capture the reader’s attention (Williams, 2020).

Therefore, when you contemplate your choice of topic, consider two essential elements: relevance and debatability within the given context (Jones, 2017). You want a topic that not only resonates with the scope of your assignment but also allows for a genuine debate. It’s often wise to delve into niche areas within broader subjects, zooming in on specific aspects that haven’t yet received extensive attention or exploration (Smith, 2018). This approach paves the way for the development of a unique and compelling argument that contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse (Brown, 2021).

Moreover, never underestimate the value of seeking guidance from experienced sources such as tutors or instructors (Johnson, 2019). Their insights and expertise can be instrumental in refining and finalizing your chosen topic, providing you with a valuable perspective that enhances the overall quality of your argument (Smith, 2018). Ultimately, the process of selecting an appropriate topic is the crucial first step towards crafting a persuasive argument that engages, informs, and persuades your audience effectively.

A-2. Understanding the Nature of Academic Arguments

In academic writing, an argument doesn’t signify a confrontational disagreement but rather a thoughtful discourse presenting differing viewpoints on a debatable issue (Smith, 2018). These academic arguments are underpinned by concrete evidence and are characterized by logical reasoning, credibility, and emotional appeal (Jones, 2017). It’s important to note that constructing a compelling academic argument entails taking a clear position, one that is informed by academically appropriate evidence rather than relying solely on personal opinions (Brown, 2021).

An academic argument necessitates the use of rhetorical appeals, encompassing logos (logical appeal), ethos (ethical appeal), and pathos (emotional appeal) (Williams, 2020). Logos involves presenting a well-structured argument supported by a robust foundation of facts, statistics, and sound reasoning (Johnson, 2019). Ethos, on the other hand, is crucial for establishing the credibility of the author through the incorporation of authoritative sources and showcasing expertise in the field (Smith, 2018). Pathos, the emotional appeal, further enhances the argument by engaging the audience’s emotions, making the overall argument more relatable and persuasive (Brown, 2021).

Additionally, academic arguments must draw support from credible sources (Jones, 2017). These credible sources can be located in various places, including physical libraries, academic digital repositories, and expert reports. It’s highly advisable to prioritize peer-reviewed sources to ensure the utmost credibility and reliability of the information (Williams, 2020). While online sources can indeed be valuable, it’s paramount to exercise discernment, distinguishing between reliable and unreliable sources. In this regard, platforms like Wikipedia and procon.org should generally be avoided when conducting academic research (Johnson, 2019).

B. Think About Your Writing

What have you learned about how to present a strong argument? How could/will you apply this knowledge in your professional or everyday life?

Throughout this course, I have learned that presenting a strong argument requires a well-defined structure, logical reasoning, and credible evidence (Smith, 2018). I have developed the skills to construct a compelling argument by considering the rhetorical appeals of logos, ethos, and pathos (Jones, 2017). This knowledge will be immensely valuable in my professional life, as it equips me to communicate effectively, persuade others, and make informed decisions based on evidence (Brown, 2021). Whether I’m writing reports, proposals, or even engaging in discussions, the ability to present a strong argument will be a powerful tool.

Consider the English Composition I course as a whole. What have you learned about yourself as a writer?

This course has been a transformative experience for me as a writer (Williams, 2020). It surprised me how much I have grown in terms of writing skills and critical thinking (Smith, 2018). I now have a deeper understanding of the writing process, from brainstorming and drafting to revising and editing (Johnson, 2019). Additionally, I have become more adept at conducting research, evaluating sources, and integrating them into my writing effectively (Brown, 2021).

One of the most significant revelations is my increased confidence in tackling complex topics and crafting persuasive arguments (Jones, 2017). I used to struggle with maintaining focus and clarity in my writing, but this course has helped me overcome those challenges (Williams, 2020). I’ve also learned the importance of time management and planning, which has improved my overall writing efficiency (Smith, 2018).