Includes a snappy title that catches the readers attention and indicates the topic and argument Essay addresses a specific audience with a physical or virtual address Clearly articulated, easily identifiable thesis that is specific, significant, and arguable Easily identifiable, well-developed reasons that support the claim Answers the so what and who cares questions by explaining why the argument is significant and to whom. Supports reasons with carefully selected, well-developed examples (evidence) from multiple sources. Uses ethos, logos, and pathos appeals to make the papers overall argument more persuasive. Uses at least five sources effectively and integrates them smoothly, paraphrasing and occasionally directly quoting authorities to help substantiate or support points. Anticipates counterarguments, considers them carefully, and responds to them fairly, conceding where others are right. Offers proper attribution to each source cited via in-text parenthetical citation and a correctly formatted Works Cited page. Comes across as a credible writer, and appeals to the values and emotions of the audience. Develops a seamless, coherent, and well-organized argument. Sentences are lively, engaging, and relatively error free. Essay is 5-6 pages in MLA Style with Works Cited in 12pt. Times New Roman font double spaced with 1-inch margins. There are literally thousands of topics to choose from. Choose a topic that really interests you. But since you need to have a good understanding of opposing points of view for this assignment, choose a topic where you will be able to keep an open mind and entertain other points of view. The list below contains the topics that you cannot write about for this assignment. Some of the following topics are on this list because people often feel so strongly about them that they have difficulty keeping an open mind and entertaining opposing points of view. Prohibited Research Topics Abortion/Birth Control/Reproductive Rights Death Penalty Legalization of Marijuana Same Sex Marriage Affordable Health Care Act Vaccinations Separation of Church and State Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide Climate Change/Global Warming Violence and Video Games Stem Cell Research Evolution/Creationism/Intelligent Design
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