ouchstone 5: Argumentative Essay

ASSIGNMENT: Write a 4-6 page (approximately 1000-1500 word) argumentative essay using the classical model supported by evidence and research.

Sample Argumentative Essay

A. Instructions

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 the issue.

In order to foster learning and growth, all essays you submit must be newly written specifically for this course. Any recycled work will be sent back with a 0, and you will be given one attempt to redo the touchstone.

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.

B. 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?

C. Argumentative Essay Guidelines

Refer to the checklist below throughout the writing process. Do not submit your research essay until it meets these guidelines.

Print this checklist!

Argumentative Topic and Thesis Statement

❒ Have you included a thesis 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 argument supported using rhetorical appeals and source material?
❒ Is your essay 4-6 pages (approximately 1000-1500 words)? If not, which details do you need to add or delete? 

Research

❒ Have you cited outside sources effectively using quotation, summary, or paraphrase?  
❒ Are the sources incorporated smoothly, providing the reader with signal phrases and context for the source information?
❒ Have you referenced a range of 2-4 credible sources?  
❒ Have you included an APA style reference page below your essay?

Organization and Flow

❒ Is there an introduction, conclusion, adequate body paragraphs, and a counterargument?  
❒ Is the argument presented in a logical order and easy for the reader to follow?
❒ Are there transitions within and between paragraphs?

Style

❒ Are the word choices accurate and effective?
❒ Are the sentence structures varied?

Conventions and Formatting

❒ Have you properly cited your sources according to APA style guidelines?
❒ Have you double-checked for correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, formatting, and capitalization?
❒ Have you proofread for typos?

Before You Submit

❒ Have you answered all of the Think About Your Writing questions on a separate page below your reference page? Are your answers thoughtful and included insights, observations, and/or examples in all responses?  
❒ Does your submission include your essay, followed by your reference page, followed by your Think About Your Writing questions?