Classical Argument

Purpose: The goals of this assignment are (1) to help you write better arguments by applying what the class has discussed about argumentation, (2) to allow you to incorporate the ideas of published writers into your own arguments. Task: Take and defend a position on a specific issue currently in the news. Pick an audience who would not totally agree with your position, and tailor your argument so that it makes sense to this audience. Underneath the title of the paper, identify the audience for whom your paper is intended. Research: Find two outside sources to incorporate into your paper. Use these resources to enhance your writing but do not let this source dominate your paper. For instance, you might use an article to support a claim you make or to give you something with which to disagree. Turn in a copy of these sources with your finished paper. Your source could be, among other things, a magazine article, something from a book, or a newspaper article. A credible source from the Internet can also be useful. Include a "Works Cited" page. Evaluation: Papers will primarily be assessed based upon the "Shared Criteria" in Resources. In particular, your focus must be arguable (must be debatable) and clearly based on the assigned topic; moreover, your development/support must be logical, accurate, and clear. Format: The final draft should be 1200 words. The document should be typed (double spaced). At the top, provide a word count and indicate the issue you are debating. Turn in your final copy in a folder; include the initial draft, prewriting, and any peer suggestions you received. Also include a copy of any outside sources you used as well as your prior graded papers.