Essay #4 challenges you to explore, analyze, and engage arguments. You’ll first identify a problem that has created controversy of some kind. You’ll then try to convince an audience that disagrees with you to consider your side. You’ll convince the reader by demonstrating that while you are well versed with the logic of the opposing side, your side is still correct.

Learning Goal: I’m working on a writing report and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

In the first and second assignments of ENGL 102, you learned about the rhetorical strategies of argumentation such as Ethos, Pathos, Logos, as well as finding credible sources. You’ve explored topics with varying opinions and began discovering sources. In Essay #4, you will use your research to make an argument while also addressing the opposing viewpoint.

Essay #4 challenges you to explore, analyze, and engage arguments. You’ll first identify a problem that has created controversy of some kind. You’ll then try to convince an audience that disagrees with you to consider your side. You’ll convince the reader by demonstrating that while you are well versed with the logic of the opposing side, your side is still correct.

Length: 5-7 pages + Works Cited, double-spaced, MLA format*

Sources: At least 5 sources from academic databases. 1 sources must address the counter-argument (Use the library resources!)

These might be informative sources that describe the details of your chosen issue, or they might be opinionated sources from both sides. (After all, to show your audience that you understand opposing viewpoints, it makes sense to show that you’ve read and understood writers who disagree with you.)

Purpose: This assignment has several goals: 1) to allow you to demonstrate that you can write an argument that shows mature reasoning; 2) to implement logos, pathos, and ethos to persuade your readers; 3) to synthesize multiple readings in an unbiased academic essay; 4) to give you practice using in-text citations and MLA format; 5) to use critical reading and note-taking skills; and 6) to introduce research.

Grading: Your essay will be evaluated according to the following criteria:

1)Clarity and originality of the claim/thesis statement; three part thesis statement

2)Organization of paragraphs and sentences within paragraphs;

3)Use of topic sentences to make substantial points that relate to your thesis;

4)Support of your claim with reasons and evidence;

5)Integration of source material;

6)Commentary that effectively connects your reasons and evidence with your claim;

7)Correct in-text citations and MLA Works Cited;

8)Technical control, including mechanics, grammar, spelling, usage, punctuation, and manuscript format.