Write a research-based, argumentative essay in which you argue the idea that “Everyone has an equal chance to succeed. Success in the United States requires no more than hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance” is a myth. In your argument explain what factors limit class mobility and what problems that creates for a just society (consider Gregory Mantsios’ arguments in Class in America”). Use Gregory Mantsios’ essay “Class in America” as one of your sources. Use three additional sources*, which you cite directly, for a minimum total of four academic sources supporting your argument. You may use one of the other assigned essays from the “Money/Success” module as one of your three additional sources.
Your essay must begin with an introduction that contains a clearly defined, purpose driven, and arguable thesis. The introduction should clearly identify any supporting main ideas that will support the thesis. Body paragraphs should contain minor claims (topic sentences) that advance controlling ideas and that support the thesis. All ideas should be supported with evidence(sources). Your paper must cite examples from the stated texts in the prompt and from your outside sources*. Each example must be supported with critical thinking that explains the significance of the chosen quotation/citation as is relates to your ideas (hint: do not end paragraphs with quotations). In your conclusion make a final statement that clearly identifies why what has been shown in your essay is important.
*additional sources must come only from the following: an article located on EBSCOhost (or from a similar database), an article in a major newspaper or magazine, or a book (but not the class textbook or other course material); sources that do not meet this criteria may be used, but will not count toward the minimum required sources; not including the minimum required source material will result in a failing grade. Dictionary and/or encyclopedia citations do not count as academic research sources; they may be included, but only in addition to sources that count towards the minimum required sources. There are no requirements as to how many citations you use from each individual source.
Your paper must:
include an original title that speaks to your thesis; do not copy a source’s title or simple use “Essay 3”;
be typed, double-spaced, using Times New Roman 12pt font;
be formatted according to MLA (heading info: name, instructor, class, date; margins; page numbers; etc.); [See p.179 of A Pocket Style Manual]
be a minimum of 4 full pages (approximately 1400-1500 words);
contain a minimum of 4 cited sources that meet the criteria for academic research as stated in this prompt;
use MLA guidelines for in-text citations and Works Cited page;
be written using strictly an academic, third-person point-of-view (no I, me, my, we, us, our, you, or y’all).
