Assignment:
You are to write a current event paper, approximately 1000 words in length, consisting of a summary and analysis of a current policy question having to do with American government and/or politics. You must cite a minimum of five references (sources) in the paper and include a works cited page at the end of the assignment to provide full bibliographic information for each of the references that was cited in the text of the paper.
Current event papers should be formatted according to MLA style, for papers with no title page.
The current policy paper should have the following elements:
•Provide a thorough, but brief, summary of the political issue. An understanding of the issue should be developed by reading the articles uncovered during research for the assignment. The information provided in the summary will lay the foundation for you to react and respond to (analyze) the political issue. Be sure to properly cite within the text (according to MLA style) any information that you obtained from one of your sources. Citations must be provided, even for paraphrased information.
•Present a minimum of 3 arguments on both sides of the political issue. These should be arguments that supporters of the positions would make, and not mere "straw man" arguments designed to be easily attacked.
•Think critically about the topic discussed in the articles and clearly express your thoughts about it in writing. Consider eight standards for critical thinking (Paul and Elder, 2103): clarity, accuracy, precision, relevance, depth, breadth, logic, and fairness.
Ask questions, such as
1.How can I validate the accuracy of my statements?
2.How is this information relevant?
3.How does my conclusion address the complexities of the issue?
4.What are the other interpretations or viewpoints of the issue?
5.Does my conclusion follow from the data and/or statements I have provided?