Paper # 3 — Argumentative Research (200 points)

It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.

– Ἀριστοτέλης (384 BC – 322 BC)

“It is better to debate a question without settling it than to settle a question without debating it.”

“The aim of argument, or of discussion, should not be victory, but progress.”

Joseph Joubert (1754-1824)

Assignment: Write a formally documented, critically argued essay of eight to ten pages in length. You will use rational, emotional, personal, and stylistic appeals as you proceed with your argumentation. Your claim should be clearly identified in the introduction and supported by several good reasons with plenty of evidence. Because your readers may not agree with your position, you will want to consider the opposition’s arguments and address their views. You can look for areas of common ground, acknowledge the opposing views, refute them, or accommodate them. You will be joining an ongoing conversation on your issue, so recognize the positions that have been and are being discussed concerning the issue. In other words, you need to show that you are well informed. Be certain, however, that your paper reflects your own opinion on the issue and that the sources are used only to support your opinions. You should learn to base your own arguments on the authority of established scholars, but you should also learn to question these scholars when their conclusions don’t ring true with your experience or understanding. Careful and critical reading is the key to intelligent writing, and the foundation of thoughtful argument.

Length: Eight to ten double-spaced pages plus a References page.

Sources: Seven to eight sources documented correctly on your References Page: two books, one government document, and three scholarly journals.

Visuals: Use appropriate visuals to enhance your points and support your claim.

Due Dates: Section 66: Section 38E:

11/13/09 – Rough Draft (two copies) 11/12/09

11/23/09 – Polished Draft (two copies) 11/24/09

12/02/09 – Paper # 3 is due 12/03/09