Arguing
a Position
(1,500-2,500 words, include
a works cited page and an outline)
DEADLINES
1st Rough Draft due:
Peer Review:
Essay #4 due:
Assignment
Write an essay that takes a
position. This essay does not need to be on a controversial "hot"
topic, but it does require that you take a stance. If you can't imagine
that anyone could see it another way, then you haven't chosen a good topic.
If you don't know what to write about, you can begin your research with
an interest and develop a position as you learn more about the subject.
Purpose
-
To convey a clear position
-
To give define an issue, provide
arguments, and imagine counterarguments
-
To be a synthesizer and summarizer
of authoritative sources.
-
To understand that all writers
write with an agenda
-
To read critically and between
the lines
Examples
-
The Simpsons: Should children be
exposed to this program?
-
Internet research on Kosovo.
What's being reported?
-
Y2K
-
Nato and History of Attacks
-
Are Seinfield's
characters selfish egomaniacs?
-
Star Wars
Fanatics
You will
need to do the following:
-
Include a Works Cited page
-
Use 3 sources
-
While doing your research find
something that surprises you
-
Define your topic of research
-
Define your position in the research
-
Give logical reason for your position
-
Imagine counterarguments
-
Offer examples, anecdotes, and
possibly statistics as support for your position
-
In the big scheme of things, why
does this argument matter?
See Common
Problems with arguing a position.
See Logic
for information on logical reasoning and critical thinking
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Last Updated 8-01-02
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