For this argumentative essay, you are to take one of the topics we discussed in class and create and support your own argument. In class, we have discussed code-switching, code-meshing, language and power, the sense of belonging, and students’ right to their language. This essay’s focus is on what YOU want to argue about one of these topics. What do you believe is true about this topic? What do YOU want to argue? What sources will you use to support YOUR argument? Here is a topic:
Do you think schools should put a greater focus on making sure students feel like they belong in academia (think about Victor Villanueva and how he said he did not feel like he belonged in school)? If you do think that fostering a sense of belonging should be a priority in school, why do you think this way (and use sources to support why you think this)? If you don’t think so, why not (and use sources to support why you think this)?
“Bootstraps” is a good reading for this (class source)
“From Outside, In” is a good reading for this (class source)
“Becoming an American Girl” is a good reading for this (class source)
“Se Habla Espanol” is a good reading for this (class source)
Terrell Strayhorn’s TEDx Talk is a good video source for this(class source)
When writing this essay, remember the rhetorical situation (audience, purpose, context, etc.) The rhetorical situation is critical when it comes to arguing. Without a clear purpose and an awareness of the audience, you may not persuade your readers to see your point of view.
Here are the requirements for Essay #4:
1750 words
3 sources (feel free to use the readings from class (even if we did not read them for class), and at least ONE OUTSIDE SOURCE)
Do not use personal experience (unless you use it in the introduction to help grab the reader’s attention). This should be a research essay, so research is required. Personal experience is not research.
Include a counterargument/naysayer
Typed
Double-spaced
MLA format with Works Cited page
Times New Roman, 12-point font
Clearly written sentences
College level main points and support
Few grammatical errors
Clear thesis statement
Effective Organization
Fully developed ideas
Essay must be an argument based on one of the articles read in class
Essay must be focused on and support the main idea of the essay (thesis)
Must incorporate and cite sources in MLA format
