Write a 4-page argumentative essay on the topic of
POLITICS
and/or
RACE
you are presenting. You must use 4 outside credible sources (which will be stated at the end of these instructions). The best databases are Opposing Viewpoints and Issues and Controversies. In an Argumentative Essay, the writer:
· Presents an issue.
· Takes a position on the issue.
· Develops an argument to convince the reader that this position is correct.
Argumentative essays often require research, and they must be from the sources that are stated at the end of these instructions: you must collect evidence that relates to the topic, such as facts, statistics, and quotations from expert sources.
Your goal is to convince your readers that your opinion about an issue (your thesis statement) is valid and important. To accomplish this goal, your essay must state your opinion about the issue clearly.
Your introduction should:
· Grab your readers’ attention with a hook.
· Introduce and define your topic.
· Give any necessary background information.
· Make a claim about the issue (thesis statement) this presents a strong argument and indicates your purpose for writing.
Then you must persuade the readers that this position is right.
Your body paragraphs should:
· Present the main arguments that support your thesis statement.
· Include facts, evidence, and examples that support each main argument.
· You should include at least one reference. This could be a direct quote, a paraphrase, a summary, or a reference to a specific research study.
· Present one or more counterarguments to show that you have considered opposing opinions.
· Your essay needs to be balanced to show that you understand the issue completely. One way to do this is to include an opposing viewpoint or counterargument. Even though you are arguing one side of an issue, you must think about what someone on the other side of the issue would argue.
· Discussing only your opinion makes your essay sound biased, and your readers may not be convinced of your viewpoint.
· Acknowledge counterargument(s) where appropriate and respond to them with refutations.
· After giving your opponent’s point of view, you offer a refutation. This means that you refute the other point of view or show how it is wrong.
Finally,
your conclusion should summarize all the arguments you have stated. It may also give a warning, a prediction, or a suggestion about what should happen next.
Self-Assessment Checklist
Self-Assessment Checklist:
Does my introduction include:
· A hook
· The topic
· Background information
· A strong thesis statement
Do my body paragraphs include:
· A clear presentation of the main arguments (that support my thesis statement)
· Facts, evidence, or examples to support each argument
· At least one reference to an outside source
· At least one counterargument and refutation
· Transitions so that my ideas flow together in a logical order
Does my conclusion include:
· Summarize my arguments
· Remind my readers why they should agree with my position
· Give my readers something to think about
THE 4 SOURCES THAT CAN
ONLY
AND
MUST
BE USED:
