Here is the assignment details:
Purpose and Goals
Throughout the semester, you’ve immersed yourself in the ideas and language of a topic that interests you, during which time you likely crafted your own views and responses to others’ views. MWP #4 is the culmination of your work this semester. By posing a unique argument on a topic that interests you, this project is an opportunity to apply the language and rhetorical devices ideal for persuading your audience (MWP #1), engage with the diverse perspectives of the conversation (MWP #2), and incorporate credible secondary sources into your own argument (MWP #3). By completing this project, you will demonstrate your command of rhetoric, research, and scholarly inquiry.
Relevant CLOs
- CLO 1: Evaluate evidence and logic – including the critique of underlying assumptions, biases, and fallacies – in various texts.
- CLO 2: Apply relevant, convincing, and effective evidence and logic in all oral and written interactions.
- CLO 3: Engage in the process of collaborative learning as it relates to reading and writing.
- CLO 4: Compose an essay with a precise thesis statement that controls the selection, structure, and presentation of material.
- CLO 5: Create effective essays and paragraphs through the writing process using standard written English.
- CLO 6: Incorporate research into essays, annotated bibliographies, research papers, and/or presentations through effective quotation, paraphrasing and summarizing.
- CLO 7: Explain and avoid plagiarism.
Assignment Requirements
To complete this assignment, you will need to
- Compose a minimum 5,000 word essay that presents a unique argument on a specific topic of your choosing.
Your argument should include
- An original thesis statement
- A section (1-4 paragraphs) providing necessary background and other contextual information. Explain to the reader why the topic is important and why they should consider the argument you make.
- 3-4 reasons that support why the reader should accept your thesis statement
- At least eight (8) scholarly sources to serve as evidence supporting your reasons and overall thesis statement
- You are welcome to include up to three (3) popular sources in addition to the required eight (8) scholarly sources
- Engagement with at least one counterargument; this will include your rebuttal as well
- A conclusion that reviews the important contents of your argument, as well as future questions or areas of further exploration
Additional Requirements and Formatting
Your final draft should meet the following additional requirements:
- Be at least 5,000 words
- Include an original, descriptive title
- Include all necessary in-text citations AND a Works Cited/References Page/Bibliography
- Note: The Works Cited/References Page/Bibliography does NOT go toward the minimum essay word count