Essay question: Volume 2 of your Voices reader includes speeches by Lyndon Johnson (284) and Ronald Reagan (329). Both presidents said that the purpose of government is to provide “opportunity” to Americans. Yet they obviously differed in their approach to this problem.

First, explain the essence of their difference, and how this played out in how each, respectively, governed the United States of America. Draw from your Give Me Liberty! text for examples.

Second, do you think that these approaches are mutually exclusive of one another? Does America really have to pick one or the other? Or is there a place for both philosophies? Explain why or why not.

Strong essays will begin with you stating your position on the second question, then using the first question to provide background for your perspective.

!!Following is the Essay Rubric:

Your responses should be approximately 500 words. Strive to make a clear and decisive argument in each essay by dividing it into three parts:

1. Exposition. Your first paragraph should describe the reading, and briefly explain what you have decided about the questions posed.

2. Development. The middle of your essay should explain your answer. It should offer details about the main arguments and content of the reading to support your claims. It should also offer background from Give Me Liberty!

3. Conclusion. Your last paragraph should recapitulate your argument, and add some final point that you think bolsters your perspective.

You can use phrases like “in this essay I argue . . . ” or “I think that . . . ” or “in conclusion, I believe that . . . “

Reference and quote from the readings when you find some passage that illustrates your points. Use your Give Me Liberty!  textbook and Voices of Freedom readers to provide background, or to add additional quotes. When you quote, reference your quote at the end of the sentence like this:

(Give Me Liberty!, 375) or (Voices, 96).

But don’t over-quote. Use your own words. And don’t just copy passages verbatim as if they were your own.

High grades (90+) will go to focused papers that emphasize a strong argument backed by clear references and that pay attention to spelling and grammar.

Medium grades (80-89) will go to competent papers that touch on the questions, but with less focus, organization, or reference backing.

Lower grades will go to all other submissions.