Argumentation Essay Paper Assignment | COM 2 | Phair | Spring 24
Due: April 19 No late papers will be accepted.
Points: 100 points possible
Length: Three to Five pages (not including reference page)
Sources: 5-8 Credible Sources. Students may use more. Papers with fewer than 3 sources will not score higher than a C
To Turn In: Submitted as PDF to Canvas
Purpose: This paper requires students to use evidence to defend a claim and build a cogent argument. The goal is to assert and defend an argument (the thesis) that is relevant and important to society.
Academic Integrity: All work must be the student’s own work. Academic misconduct by a student (defined as “falsification, unauthorized assistance with, or plagiarism of reports, term papers, research papers or other written documents; giving or receiving unauthorized aid on examinations”) will result in failure of the course. There is absolutely no flexibility with this policy.
Formatting: Format your paper using 1-inch margins and 12-point Times New Roman or similar font. Your paper should be double-spaced throughout and should follow APA style. (Title pages and abstract are NOT required.)
Topic: Students may choose any topic with the exception of those that violate the CSUS student code of conduct. (Students may not advocate harm to others or promote hate speech.) Topics should not be self-evident and should allow for sufficient, credible research
Paper Outline:
Introduction (1 Paragraph)
Start by setting the context by reviewing the topic in a general way. Explain why the topic is important (exigence) or why readers should care about the issue. Lastly, students should present the thesis
At the end of the first paragraph, it should be clear what your claim is and why it is important.
Main Body (4 to 7 paragraphs)
Each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph. Examine one major argument or piece of evidence per paragraph. It is important to explain how and why the evidence supports the thesis (warrant).
The argumentative essay requires well-researched, accurate, detailed, and current information to support the thesis statement and consider other points of view. Sources can supply evidence or backing for either evidence or warrants.
Some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence should support the thesis. However, students must consider multiple points of view when collecting evidence. A well-rounded argumentative essay will also discuss opinions not aligning with the thesis. It is unethical to exclude evidence that may not support the thesis. In this way, you will explore the conditions and refutations for your argument.
Conclusion (1 paragraph)
In a final paragraph summarize what you’ve discovered and reiterate your thesis in light of the evidence. Explain the logical conclusion of the evidence and reframe your claim as necessary.
