This paper is the final opportunity in this class for you to demonstrate your understanding of the material we have covered so far:
•the structure of argument (claim, evidence, tone)
•how to summarize the written arguments of others (identify the original source, identify the claim and main points, omit unnecessary examples, minor points, and asides, be clear and concise, and use attributive tags)
•how to analyze the written arguments of others (break the argument into its component parts, discuss each part in terms of the author’s strategy and its effectiveness or lack thereof, and draw a logical conclusion/evaluation of the quality of the argument, based on your analysis)
•how to acknowledge and respond to counterargument(s)
•how to make and argue a claim on a topic where academics and/or professionals disagree
•how to do a literature review that explores a topic

The new pieces we’ve added are:
•how to synthesize opposing positions into a coherent overview
•how to organize your essay into parts, with subheadings, for greater readability
•how to focus, simultaneously, on both informing and persuading in order to reach consensus and/or solve shared problems

You are not required to demonstrate each and every skill listed above; however, I will expect you to use effectively each one that will make your paper as persuasive as possible. This last paper will show me what you have learned in this course, so do your very best work.

Choose a current topic that is debated (consensus has clearly not been reached). You may not choose a topic you have previously written about for this class, but by now you should have a sense of how to generate topics for research papers (i.e., check online news sources to see what’s happening and being discussed; refer to the conversations you have with others; examine subjects you have experience or expertise in; choose an issue you have strong feelings about, etc.). Remember which topics you may NOT write about, and get to work.

Your job is to write a well-constructed, well-supported, properly-cited, error-free argument that also informs your reader on the subject. As always, assume a reader who does not know much about the topic, and needs clear, concise, and thorough information in order to understand and agree with your claim, whatever that may be. While you may have an idea about what, exactly, you will argue, you should not finalize your claim until AFTER you have concluded your research.

Your paper should be or have:
1.1500-2000 words long (6-8 pages NOT including bibliography)
2.title, double space, then begin the paper; no separate title page
3.professional font and formatting
4.bibliography or Works Cited page with correct MLA-style citations
5.minimum of 8 cited sources, credible and appropriate

Words to the Wise:
1.Start early so you don’t have to rush, you can take breaks when you need to, and come back to the paper with fresh eyes.
2.Remember that writing is hard work, and it is crafted; that means there are steps and stages to the process. You should always plan to revise (multiple drafts).
3.When the paper is finally written, there is editing. Catch your own errors and correct them, you’ll be much happier with your grades.