Argumentative Essay

Assignment Details

Description: For your final essay, I would like you to explore a controversial issue within your field of study, arguing for a potential change or solution to this issue. Consult the list below in order to help guide you and promote creative thinking; however, do not feel restricted to writing about one of the topics if you would prefer to explore another avenue that interests you:

AHCD: Should people face criminal charges for hate speech online?
Business: Should the minimum wage be increased?
Education: Is standardized testing a fair and effective method of evaluating students?
Health Sciences: Should parents be required by law to vaccinate their children?
IMCT: Should automotive companies continue to pursue driverless vehicle technology?
Public Safety: Should all police officers be required to wear body cameras that cannot be turned off?
SBSHS: Should prostitution be legalized throughout the United States?
STEM: How might video game companies promote more race and gender diversity throughout the industry?

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WRITING TASKS:

· Before you begin your essay, you should choose which stance you will take on the topic (i.e., are you for the topic, against it, or some combination of both). Then, develop a strong, specific thesis that argues a specific claim about that topic (i.e., don’t simply argue “I am for ______” or “I am against ______”). Remember that you must argue about a specific change that you want to see happen in order to rectify your issue.

· To help build the ethos and logos appeals of your argument, you will be required to use at least five sources in your essay. While you may reference sources like personal blogs or Wikipedia in your paper, three of your five sources must be more credible (e.g., articles and/or images from magazines, journals, or newspapers; books; government websites, etc.).

· Consider the audience for your essay. Will your reader be receptive to your argument, or will they be strongly opposed to your claims? Your audience’s reaction to your thesis will determine a number of things in your writing, including structure, tone, and evidence. Also, keep in mind that while recognizing opposing viewpoints certainly lends credibility and ethos to your argument, you don’t want to undermine your own claims. Give credit and acknowledgment to other opinions, but simultaneously reinforce your own ideas.