Prompt: Develop an
argumentative essay that takes a stance on a debatable topic and use ethos,
pathos, and logos to deduce plausible evidence in support of the claim.
Requirements
4 credible sources
750 words minimum
Underline thesis/theme
Begin by brainstorming two
topics that might be effectively compared, contrasted, or compared and
contrasted.
Once you have settled on your two topics,
start to plot out your points of comparison and/or contrast using graphic
organizational strategies like a Venn diagram or a compare and contrast table.
You can also just create a simple list of these points, if you prefer.
Once you have a robust list of compare and
contrast points, you will need to narrow the focus to a select few. Often,
three points work well for this paper. You can certainly choose more, but do
not choose less than three supporting points, or you may not achieve full
development and support of your claims.
Next, create a specific and straightforward explicit
thesis/claim statement. The reader should have no confusion about your purpose
(to compare, to contrast, or to compare and contrast) or the supporting points
that you will be using to prove the similarities and differences between your
topics.
Then, start outlining your
point-by-point organizational strategy. As you work to organize your own ideas,
you should also begin to carefully collect source material or evidence. While
you need to include at least two reliable and credible sources with this essay,
your original insight and analysis is still the most important part of this
essay. The research should be a complement to your ideas, not the central
focus.
Don’t forget to continue to focus on your
compare/contrast language and analysis. Readers should never wonder what you
are trying to demonstrate with this essay.
Be sure to use third-person
perspective throughout the entire essay.
When it comes to your
conclusion, remember to remind readers of your thesis and all of your
supporting points in this final paragraph, but don’t repeat the thesis
verbatim. Instead, summarize all that has come before in the essay, using
different language. Be sure to avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion,
as this could confuse readers (and these ideas can’t become fully developed or
supported).
Proofread your essay by
correcting any errors in spelling, usage, mechanics, style/language, grammar,
and sentence structure. Double-check that you are using MLA formatting.
