Essay 3 – Research Assignment Details
Description:
For your final essay, I would like you to think about a problem that impacts you on a daily basis (
MENTAL HEALTH) and a research-based solution on a topic that is related to your area of study. You may have come to this issue through experience or through your own research. This could be an issue that you encounter through your job, on MDC’s campus, or in your individual community. For instance, you might focus on employers who monitor their employees’ social media accounts, a minimum wage that doesn’t not cover current costs of living, restrictive college textbook costs, a lack of local leash laws in your city, addressing mental health for students, etc.
Then, you must a solution using research for a particular change that you would recommend or consider in order to resolve this problem. Use a combination of both outside sources and your own observations and experiences to develop specific evidence for your argument.
Note:
Before choosing your topic, consult the list located on the second page of this assignment sheet, which contains ten overused persuasive essay topics that I strongly urge you to avoid.
These are the DO NOT DO topics.
WRITING TASKS:
Before you begin your essay, you should choose which stance you will take on the topic (i.e., are you for the topic, against it, or some combination of both). Then, develop a strong, specific thesis that argues a specific claim about that topic (i.e., don’t simply argue “I am for ______” or “I am against ______”). Remember that you must argue about a specific change that you want to see happen in order to rectify your issue.
To help build the ethos and logos appeals of your argument, you will be required to use at least three sources in your essay. While you may reference sources like personal blogs or Wikipedia in your paper, two of your three sources must be more credible or academic (e.g., articles from magazines, journals, or newspapers; books; government websites, etc.).
Consider the audience of your essay. Will your reader be receptive to your argument, or will they be strongly opposed to your claims? Your audience’s reaction to your thesis will determine a number of elements in your writing, including structure, tone, and evidence. Also, keep in mind that while recognizing opposing viewpoints certainly lends credibility and ethos to your argument, you don’t want to undermine your own claims. Give credit
and acknowledgement to other opinions, but simultaneously reinforce your own ideas.
Assessment:
Your grade will derive from your abilities to argue successfully your thesis using convincing evidence, specific details and examples, and pertinent outside sources, as well as to organize your thoughts in an effective and logical style to help your reader clearly understand
your argument.
Requirements:
You should submit a 1000-1250 word (4 – 5 page) essay, in MLA format.
Overused Argument Topics:
Abortion
Animal Testing
The Death Penalty
Domestic and Child Abuse
The Drinking Age
Euthanasia
Gay Marriage & Adoption
Legalizing Marijuana
Smoking
Vegetarianism