Argument

Instructions

Argue a point. Take a stand. Correct a misconception. Refute an argument or belief. Question an assumption. This assignment asks you to form a position on an issue that is meaningful to you by listening to the conversation surrounding the issue, articulating your position, and using good reasons to explain why you have taken your stance.

To take a side on a subject, you should first establish the arguability of a topic that interests you. Ask yourself the following questions to ensure that you will be able to present a strong argument:

Is it a real issue, with genuine controversy and uncertainty?

• Can you identify at least two distinctive positions?
• Are you personally interested in advocating for one of these positions?
• Is the scope of the issue narrow enough to be manageable?
• Is the issue a problem that has several potential solutions?

Identify an interesting issue that you feel needs to be rethought, explored, and argued about. Explain why the issue needs to be addressed, and translate your stance (or position) into a thesis statement. Support your position with good reasons (specific details and examples).

For this assignment, you will want to demonstrate “genuine argument” or “a position that is devoted to understanding the reasonable differences that divide people and using this understanding to clarify the issues” (Trimbur). Thus, for this assignment you will examine and respond to arguments started by others, exploring what claims have and have not been made about a certain issue as you articulate and explain your own position.

Assignment Overview: Write a 700 to 800-word essay in which you argue for or against a particular issue. The essay must include at least one paragraph that refutes your opposition’s position. It must also include at least 7 sources (4 of which must come from academic sources). It must be written in MLA format.

Requirements:

• a minimum of 7 resources (4 from academic sources)
• MLA format
• 700 to 800 words
• multimedia appeal (an image or chart that can be used to support your position on the issue)

NOTE the topics that you may NOT write about:

• capital punishment
• gun control
• abortion
• euthanasia
• legalization of marijuana