English 110 2063-2172 Argumentative Essay (15% of overall grade) “An effective a

English 110 2063-2172
Argumentative Essay (15% of
overall grade)
“An effective argument makes a well-supported,
well-considered point about an issue in an attempt to convince or persuade
readers. Convincing involves gaining readers’ agreement that a position on an
issue is reasonable and well founded. Persuading involves getting them to take
action.” (Palmquist 397)
For this assignment, you will choose
a topic based on the 19th century philosopher, William Kingdon
Clifford, and “The Ethics of Belief.” Uribe points out that Clifford’s
philosophy is perhaps more relevant than ever in our “interconnected,
AI-driven, digital age.” The topics that
you can choose are wide and varied. I only ask that it somehow fit into
Clifford’s philosophy.
A successful argument requires
that you
1. Take an explicit position.
While the use of qualifying words such as “many,” “some,” or “maybe” is
acceptable, an explicit position is often easier to argue and will not confuse
your reader.
2. Respond to what others have
said or done. This is your counterargument.
3. Provide your reader with the
appropriate background information.
4. Give a clear indication of why this topic
matters.
5. As always, provide good
reasons and evidence.
Argumentative
Essay Criteria
4-6 pages with MLA formatting
Minimum 3 sources – Because we
are discussing the ethics of belief, please make sure that your sources are credible.
Essays which receive an “A” must
contain the following:
An explicitly stated thesis
which shares the position the author will take
A contribution to a larger
conversation related to “The Ethics of Belief”
An engaging introduction which
captures the readers’ attention
Background information about the
subject if needed
An authoritative and reasonable
tone which is appropriate to your audience and purpose
Ample reasons and evidence to
support your position
Trustworthy sources with
quotations, summaries, and paraphrases smoothly integrated into the text.
(A) skillfully addressed
counterargument(s)
Easy-to-follow organizational pattern
with clear transitions
Appropriate style (diction, syntax,
level of formality) for the intended audience
A decisive and satisfying conclusion
Remember that your reader, even
if they don’t agree with you, should consider your argument plausible.