Writing Argument

In this unit, you will be learning and demonstrating the concepts of written argument, and the result will be a lengthy paper which uses research and documentation to support a debatable thesis.

Briefly, you’ll need to choose a subject that interests you or relates to your own experience. You may even choose a subject that you have already written about for this class. Then examine the subject for a debatable claim of fact, value, cause and effect, or policy that you could make about it. If the claim is arguable, you have a focus for your arguing paper. Analyze your probable audience to guide your argumentative strategy.

Use the criteria as listed on page 433 such as:
· Focusing on a debatable proposition or claim.
· Analyzing the audience.
· Representing and evaluating the opposing points of view on the issue fairly and accurately.
· Arguing reasonably against the opposition and for your claim.
· Supporting your claim with sufficient evidence.

Working outline submission should include your thesis or claim, a list of arguments (reasons) you will use to support your claim, and a list of opposing arguments that you will challenge. All arguments should include a sketch (hint) of the evidence you intend to use.

Essay should be in 12 point Times New Roman (or equivalent) font with double spaced lines. That makes it easier for me to grade and less for you to write. :-)

You may use the default margins of your word processor (probably 1" top/bottom and 1.25" sides). Length should be six paragraphs.

Use MLA documentation procedures as described in your textbook, pp. 583-592. Include in-text source citations and a “Works Cited” page. Mechanics will constitute 10% of the grade for this paper.

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