Argument Paper Guidelines
We argue all the time, don’t we? We have our own views and opinions on most any topic. We debate, discuss, and try to get our point across. We listen to other views to decide if we agree with them, and we usually want proof that those views are valid.
Your task is to write a 1000-1500 word argumentative essay that focuses on a social issue and the solution to that issue. Remember, one of your goals is to propose a solution to the problem, so keep that in mind as you search for a suitable topic.
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You will begin with an attention-grabbing introduction, then offer background information on your topic and, finally, lead into your thesis statement. The thesis statement should be 1-2 sentences that identify the problem, its primary causes or effects, and its potential solution.
You must argue at least two sides of the topic/issue. In other words, you must have a primary argument and a counter-argument. The counterargument is the “other side” or “opposing side” of the issue. Make sure you highlight 2-3 discussion points on your side of the issue. You can present 1-2 discussion points on the opposing side.
You must incorporate at least five (5) credible sources into your paper. The sources must come from the FTCC library (or another library you have access to).
The Works Cited page should have at least five (5) sources listed.
The paper should be formatted according to MLA guidelines. If your paper does not contain in-text citations and a Works Cited page, you will earn a zero on the assignment.
The paper must be written in 3rd person. The paper is not about you or the reader, so remove yourself and the reader from the text.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Argument Paper Outline Guidelines
Some students think outlines are a waste of time, while others see them as a confusing method of doing something, but they don’t what that “something” is. Few students understand the benefits of writing an effective outline. You’re in luck – this is your chance to create an outline that will offer you a clear picture of your argument, a skeleton of your paper.
Your task is to use the outline template posted below this assignment file to create a full sentence outline of your paper. “Full sentence” means that each point in your outline should be written in a complete sentence. The outline should include your primary argument, the counterargument, and the solution to the issue you chose. You must also include a paragraph that discusses your research and writing experience.
Your assignment should be written in MLA format.
Annotated Bibliography Guidelines
Your task is to find scholarly resources you plan to use in the final assignment, the argument paper.
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Your annotated bibliography should meet the following criteria:
You should create annotations for five sources that you might use in your argument paper. Your sources should come from the FTCC Library or other libraries you have access to. You need to find sources for at least two sides of the argument (yours, the primary argument, and the counterargument or opposing view). If you cannot find sources, contact your instructor immediately for help. Call the library for help, too. The librarians can help you find sources, too.
First, summarize the source. Then, discuss how you will use the source in the paper. Each annotation should be about 150-200 words. Your summaries should be written in 3rd person.
Format your bibliography according to MLA guidelines. Please review the sample annotation.
Ethical/Social Issue Topic Proposal Guidelines
The final project for the course will be an argumentative essay that explores an ethical dilemma/social issue and proposes a solution to that issue. This is your first step in that process.
Once you choose a topic, you will create an Annotated Bibliography of sources, as well as an outline that can help you discover information about the topic and understand it better. But first…
Your first assignment is to choose a topic and write a topic proposal. Your proposal should follow the typical MLA essay structure. You can see a sample MLA paper here: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/media/pdf/20090701095636_747.pdf
In three well-developed paragraphs, your proposal should include the following:
1. A concise discussion of the subject.
2. A clear statement of your intended focus. Include a proposed solution to the issue in this section.
3. A rationale for choosing the topic.
You do not need to include research in this assignment. Make sure you review Church’s proposal on page 212 of the Norton text.
Keep in mind, this is not your actual essay (not even close). Right now, you’re only choosing a topic and explaining why you want to focus on it.
It’s important for you to choose a topic that you are passionate about so that you are more invested in the research.
By submitting this paper, you agree: (1) that you are submitting your paper to be used and stored as part of the SafeAssign™ services in accordance with the Blackboard Privacy Policy; (2) that your institution may use your paper in accordance with your institution’s policies; and (3) that your use of SafeAssign will be without recourse against Blackboard Inc. and its affiliates.
Annotated Bibliography Sample
Benge, Raymond D., Jr. “Electronic Waste.” Salem Press Encyclopedia (2013): Research Starters. Web. 4 Feb. 2015.
T he main point of the article is to give the very basic of overviews concerning e-waste and recycling procedures. The article provides the definition of e-waste while providing examples of the topic at hand. The article also discusses problems, and hazards, that arise from e-waste and the recycling techniques that pertain to e-waste. This source will help to introduce readers to the topic at hand by providing a credible definition of the topic. However, the simple format of the article left a lot of information unexplored, while creating further questions regarding certain points made in the article. This article will serve as a transition into the argument portion of the paper.
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