For your second essay in this class, you will be writing an academic argument. We will be making a list of possible subjects during class. Though I will list them out on a final "approved" assignment sheet for you, you should write your possible choices in the list below:
What is an academic argument?
An academic argument is an evidence-based defense of a non-obvious position on a complex issue. Unlike a personal essay, which can rely on personal experience and general observations, a research paper must draw on evidence - usually in the form of direct quotations or statistics from peer-reviewed academic journals. You have no reason to "defend" a position unless some expert has presented credible evidence that challenges a claim you want to make. (Finding, quoting, and engaging with that evidence is part of your task as an academic writer.) An academic argument is not a squabble, a difference of opinions, or an attorney's courtroom statement. The author of an academic argument is more like the judge, who, after hearing out the best arguments in favor of various possible solutions, supports the best one. An academic argument is part of a discussion that respects multiple viewpoints (as long as those viewpoints are backed by credible evidence). We will be reading examples of academic arguments in class as we go through the process, but you may have already encountered some when you were writing your rhetorical analysis.
Many times your professors will make a distinction between the academic argument and a research paper. They are, in fact, very similar, but they tend to differ in the scope of their work. A research argument requires that you spend a great deal of understanding the context and history before making your argument (and demonstrating to readers that you understand this context). An academic argument can be completed without citing outside sources (in an ideal world), but that doesn't let you off the hook for research. You still must do your homework to fully understand your topic. Our assignment will be a blending of the two: you'll be doing an academic argument with a small amount of required research.
Think of it, perhaps, as a mini-research paper that will prepare you for the essays you might write in later English courses or in your chosen field of study.
Requirements and suggestions:
• An introduction that contextualizes the main issue that your essay will be addressing: what key terms need to be defined for your audience? What are some main points that your audience will need to know to have a clear idea about the issue?
• A clearly articulated thesis statement: what is your position? What is your purpose for writing this essay? Try to have this in your introduction (not necessarily required), but definitely get there before the close of the first page.
• Make clear and provable claims that can be supported by evidence.
• Identify other persuasive points both strong and weak
• Provide evidence for your claims-don't expect your audience to just take your word for it!
• Integrate facts, data, and direct quotes from both course readings and research to both articulate the issue and the many positions people hold on this issue, but also to support your claims. A minimum of 3-4 academic sources are required.
• Craft transitions between paragraphs when moving from one main point/idea to the next.
• Compose a conclusion that explains why this issue is important, and why your position on this issue should be accepted and acted upon.
• The essay should be 4-5 pages.
• The essay should be in MLA format with font Times New Roman size 12.
• Your essay should identify your personal "investment" in this issue (why have you selected this particular issue above all others).
• Use standard academic English for this essay, and only use first person voice if it actually helps you make your argument. If it doesn't, use third person voice.