Argumentative Essay Current Events - 1

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Essay One: Argumentative Essay: Current Events

Due Date:

Your assignment is to consider a current event and the issues that surround it as prevalent and
problematic in our world (something you’re interested in, preferably). Remember that an “issue” is
indicative of conflict, but it is not, in and of itself, an argument. Your argument is meant to make the
reader more aware of the issue’s subtle nuances, and prove to them that your point of view is worthy of
attention. For example, if your current event focuses on violence in video games, and your argument is
that it can actually be good for us (an argument that has been made), you will need to make a series of
claims as to how that’s possible and back them up with your own reasoning as well as with other
sources regarding virtual acts of violence vs. real acts of violence. What is paramount is that your
argument be comprised of thoughts and ideas that you feel both point to the heart of your issue and
take a stab at how this issue might be resolved.

Developmentally, you may incorporate any other forms of essay writing you’ve been taught hitherto.
Use personal experience if you have it. Examine the definitive nature of your issue(s) if it helps clarify
your argument. Make comparisons and contrasts if they’ll benefit you, etc. Ultimately, you should
explain or suggest why your argument deserves your audience’s attention… what makes it significant?

In terms of Focus and Organization, keep your essay concentrated… if you discuss more than one
predominant issue, make sure each is relatable and can be linked to the issues being explored. Use
specific examples or scenarios from research to illustrate your ideas.

Stylistically, you should be authoritative, addressing the issue as someone who should be listened to;
but be careful not to allow personal biases or emotions to control the tone of your essay.

The essay should be no less than 4 pages, typed, double-spaced with normal page margins, 12 pt.
font. IF you use research, use at least four sources and cite them using MLA Format.

Self-help Criteria: Continually ask yourself these questions during the writing process. 

Focus: Does your essay have a clear point, or stance? Does the entire essay relate
clearly to that point?

Development:               Is your essay developed through examples, details, specific information?

Organization:               Does your essay follow some clear logic and order? Does it flow? Have
readability? Do you step away at certain points to explore your key idea—what
you are trying to say?

Clarity: Is your essay written in clear and appropriate language—language befitting


your topic? Does a strong individual voice emerge? Can the reader hear you?
Correctness:                Is your essay written in Standard Written English? Do misspellings and
grammar errors detract from your message? Has the paper been adequately
proofread and revised?

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