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Argumentative Essay Assignment Guidelines

Purpose

The goal of this assignment is to articulate and support your own clear and unique stance on a relevant social issue, backed up by credible evidence. This is your opportunity to compose an argument about an issue that matters to you and your community.

The bigger picture: the purpose of this assignment is to practice essential writing and argumentative skills that you will use throughout college and in just about any professional opportunity you plan to pursue in the future. The ability to write clearly and persuasively is a key skill that every employer is looking for when hiring, and it's a skill that you will use frequently throughout your professional life.

Task

Compose an argumentative essay supported by credible evidence. The essay should include these essential components: an introduction, an articulation of your own argument that is directed towards a specific audience, a consideration of opposing views, and a conclusion.

Criteria for Success

Be sure to include:

1. An introduction that introduces and contextualizes your topic for a specific audience.
2. A unique or original central claim: your thesis.
3. At least 6 credible sources that support your central claim.
4. Analysis and discussion of secondary sources on your topic, in order to demonstrate to readers how this evidence supports your argument.

1. A section that addresses the opposing view and refutes and/or accommodates it.
2. A brief conclusion that ties together your different ideas and wraps the paper up clearly and succinctly for your readers.
3. In-text citations throughout the paper when you quote, paraphrase, or reference the sources and a Works Cited page with entries for each source.