Composition II – ENGL 1302 Essay 1: Persuasive Argument Essay 150 points Purpose

Composition II – ENGL 1302
Essay 1: Persuasive Argument Essay
150 points
Purpose: For this essay, we will explore what makes an argument persuasive and the techniques we could implement into our own writing. This essay will primarily focus on researching controversial topics, introducing supporting details, and analyzing opposing arguments/claims.
Instruction:For this essay, you will research and write about a controversial issue currently being addressed or ignored in society. In doing so, you will argue for or against that particular topic and provide outside sources that both support and oppose your arguments.
This particular essay will primarily focus on the following:
Introducing a controversial topic and effectively arguing for or against that topic.
Introducing opposing arguments related to the topic, which the writer will either refute or concede.
Constructing a clear thesis statement that will serve as a roadmap for the essay.
Researching the general claims/arguments pertaining to the controversy surrounding your topic and the greater impact it has on society, culture, etc.
Providing supporting details that serve as textual evidence to help strengthen arguments/claims.
Analyzing the overall structure of the essay and creating outlines to organize thoughts/main ideas
Properly learn how to utilize in-text citations and craft work cited pages in MLA format
Objective: Write a 4-6 page essay about a controversial topic of the writer’s choosing, which they will effectively argue for or against that topic. A good persuasive essay will:
Establish a clear perspective that argues for or against a controversial issue/topic
Organize information in a way that engages readers and establishes context
Use tone and language appropriate for a public audience
Incorporate textual evidence and supporting details that strengthen arguments
Provide the reader with new information that allows them to view the topic in a new light
Be free of mechanical and grammatical errors
Show development through each step of the writing process
Grading Rubric:
The following rubric will be used to evaluate this essay.
Significance/Argument – Use of information to establish context, importance
50 Pts.
Word Choice/Language – Concise language, vivid verbs, smooth transitions
50 Pts.
Organization – Ordering of information and development of significance
10 Pts.
Grammar/Mechanics – Spelling, punctuation, and sentence fluency
10 Pts.
In-text Citations/Work Cited – Properly utilizes MLA Format
30 Pts.
Total: 150 Pts.