This assignment should be an argument that is about the novel, is grounded in the text and events of novel, and makes an argument that digs much deeper into the novel than superficial observations and glib assertions.
These are very broad topics; your assignment should narrow the broad topic significantly. Dig deeper into one aspect or facet of the topic to create a singular argument, rather than make a broad observation or ramble though several connected ideas. If you are not sure what an argument looks like–there is a good example and a not-so-good example in student discussions.
You do not have space to forge a complex theoretical argument or waffle about with vague assertions and general claims–straightforward and clearly stated is your best option.
MAKE SURE YOUR ASSIGNMENT DIRECTLY ADDRESSES THE PROMPT
- The more focussed and concentrated your argument is, the stronger it will be.
- There is no grading advantage in being ‘leftist’ or a ‘social justice warrior’–there IS a grading advantage in creating an argument that is well-informed, even-handed, precise, and accurate.
- Connect your research directly to the novel–and offer enough explanation that your reader understands the connection.
- Use and cite specific text/evidence from the novel whenever possible.
- Use and cite specific text/evidence from the novel whenever possible.
- Assumptions or assertions not backed up by scholarly research are (for the purposes of an argumentative research essay) opinions.
- Opinions are not considered persuasive in an academic argument of this type.
- MLA is a very specific citation style, and needs to be followed meticulously.
- Your assignment will be checked for plagiarism. If you are not sure what that constitutes plagiarism, have a look here
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The assignment will:
- Be 350-450 words; of your own original research and writing.
- Have a clearly stated thesis statement (not a purpose statement) as the last sentence of the introductory paragraph
- Have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion that, work together to create an argumentative scholarly research essay;
- Accurately use at least 3 relevant and scholarly peer-reviewed bibliographic references other than course readings (cited in MLA style) that support and move the argument forward. You may include other reliable references, but they will not be considered as scholarly references. Dictionary and Encyclopaedia entries are not scholarly references, nor are book reviews and opinion pieces. Your references will be checked for accuracy.