Argumentation Essay

Write a 750-1000 word argumentation/persuasion essay using any approach as a method of development. ESSAY MUST BE ACCOMPANIED WITH AN OUTLINE & WORKS CITED PAGE!

An effective argumentative essay must have evidence to make its case; most arguments that occur in daily life happen in the heat of the moment and are more likely directed toward saving one’s own pride than toward giving clear and supportive proof to one’s claims.

Writing Approach

Knowing how to brainstorm is going to save you from writing a weak essay. Also, knowing how to support your claims with evidence from outside sources will further strengthen your essay. For that reason, this assignment requires the use of two references (no internet sources other than reputable online journals or magazines). Those sources must be incorporated into your paper using either quotations or paraphrasing. REMEMBER: Every sentence in which you have incorporated material from an outside source MUST end with an in-text citation. 

In addition, you will add a Works Cited page at the end of your essay. Finally, your Works Cited page will be in MLA (Modern Language Association) format so that all information provided will be easy for your reader to find.

• Study “Chapter 14: Acknowledging Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism” in The St. Martin’s Handbook to see how to cite the sources you use in your paper.
• Study “Chapter 32: MLA Style” in The St. Martin’s Handbook for more information on finding and using references in your essays in MLA format.
• Go to Writing Research Papers and Citing Sources at the Purdue OWL website for more on MLA, including sample student papers.
• Utilize the following resources: Writing to Persuade (The Argument Essay) Workshop and Argumentative Essays

Writing Assignment

Purpose: to persuade

Method of Development: your choice

For argumentative/persuasive topics, see the list at the end of “Chapter 11: Argumentation-Persuasion” in The Longman Reader. Don’t forget my ilst of banned topics – please do not write on any of these overused topics:

• Abortion
• Gun Control
• Gay Marriage
• Capital Punishment

Reminders:

1. Brainstorm for topics.
2. Choose one topic, choose a method of development, and organize all details accordingly.
3. Research for appropriate evidence to support your argument. While you are researching, be sure to note all information necessary to filling out your Works Cited page for that entry.
4. Remember your conclusion and your Works Cited page in MLA format.
5. Check the syllabus for due dates.