The aim:
The aim of this essay is to articulate how the chosen text is attempting to argue/convince: At its core, this is an analytic research paper; thus, you must dig into who, what, when, and where but placing the majority of the focus on why and how this text is arguing this particular way. It is not sufficient to summarize the argument you must analyze why it is presented through a certain perspective. Look carefully at the language, images, use of rhetorical appeals, the audience, and pitfalls, as well as what is included or excluded in the article.
Where to begin:
It is a common misconception that a research paper is merely an assemblage of collected information on a topic. Research papers, in fact, need to have strong arguments that are supported by the information rather than dictated by it.
For this essay:
Find an article that is attempting to convince/persuade (the article assigned from class are great for this).
Scrutinize the article, ask pointed questions about how it is arguing (the So What can help with his.)
Find articles that can be used as evidence to back up your analysis.
o It is not sufficient simply to back up the argument; instead use the article to give the
analysis credence.
Texts Covered in Class that will help
•Everything’s an Argument
• Grade Grubbing Valedictorians
• Students are not Customers
• College is not a Commodity
• Shitty First Drafts
Essay Checklist:
1000 words minimum (about 4 full pages): The completed essay must have 1000 words. Although typed, double-spaced, Times New Roman size 12 font, the essay must include a Works Cited page. The Works Cited page does not count toward your length.
Works Cited:
This essay will contain a works cited (that will not count towards the page total) that must
contain at least 3 credible sources.
A credible source is written by an author that is respected in their field of study and will cite their sources (their evidence) so that the reader can check for accuracy and validity. (Checking an author’s evidence is also a good way to gain more sources for your own research)
Non-credible sources are unreliable because they do not contain true, factual, accurate, or up to date information. Sources like Wikipedia can never considered credible because it can be changed by anyone. But it can be utilized as a source when students are beginning to understand a topic. if unsure, ask questions:
Who is the author? What makes them credible? What makes the source credible? When was the material published? What is the purpose of the source? How is the source proved? What type of audience is the source aimed at?
Format:
MLA – complete with heading and page numbers
