Analytical Argument Essay
Required Assignment Topic
For this assignment, you need to select one of the approved topics below.
- Should Single-use Plastics be Banned?
- Should the United States Require Mandatory National Service?
- Should Sanctuary Cities Receive Federal Funding?
Overview and Purpose
The purpose of this essay is to analyze various arguments (for, against, and anything in between) from credible sources, show how sources connect (or disconnect), and bring your third-person voice (based on the textual evidence) into conversation with the texts. You need to have a clear stance on the topic, and by using elements of persuasion, you should appeal to and persuade your audience to understand your stance. You should NOT be writing an essay that states your position and simply argues how your point is correct. Remember that this is a formal argument essay –NOT an opinion piece. This means that you need to provide an argument based on textual analysis and evidence.
Assignment Content
- Write this essay in correct essay format using an introduction, supporting paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Include an arguable thesis statement. Be sure to state your purpose for the essay and your position (for/ against) for the topic. Help your audience by having a clear map of your essay.
- Make sure you identify source titles, authors’ names, and provide a brief summary of sources being used. Do not assume that your audience knows the sources being used.
- State the style of writing (argument, persuasive, description, etc.) for each source used.
- Support your claims by using textual evidence and logical reasoning.
- Provide counterclaims to show different points of view on the topic.
- Avoid writing too much opinion. You need to provide an argument that can be supported by credible evidence.
- You should have 4 sources for this essay.
- If you are struggling finding sources, I highly encourage you to contact an EvCC librarian for assistance.
- Maximum of 6 sources.
- Visuals, charts, etc. are NOT allowed for this essay.
Assignment Format
- MLA Style
- Essay (paragraph style) format
- Thesis statement
- Complete sentences
- Accurate grammar and punctuation
- 6-8 pages in length
- The “Works Cited” page doe NOT count as part of the required length.
- Double-spaced
- Times New Roman
- 12 point font
- 3rd person pronoun