Locate two short essays/articles online. Remember to use in-text citations and list these readings on your Works Cited page!
Read both essays/articles, make notes (or annotations), either in the book or on a photocopy. Underline or highlight these features of the piece: (1) The author’s argument (or thesis), and (2) the supporting evidence the author uses. In the margins, make at least three notes per page (does not have to be turned in — it is for your benefit). For example, make a note of any persuasive strategy you notice the author using. This doesn’t have to be turned in to me.
The following questions need to be answered in your essay: Is the arguments by the authors effective or ineffective? Why? How does one essay reflect or contradict the other essay you’re reading? How are the authors’ goals similar? How are their goals different? Who are these authors trying to reach with their argument(s)?
Here are some more questions you need to answer in your essay: What kind of evidence do they provide to support their claim? Do their texts speak to the intended audiences? Why? How do the texts measure up to each other? Does one do a better job of arguing a point than the other? Why?
(All of these questions will help organize your ideas and help you write your paper.) You don’t have to turn this information into me. This is simply to help you organize and plan out your thoughts!
Upon the completion of this assignment, students should demonstrate the ability to:
· Create a dynamic thesis which engages and challenges the reader and support that thesis with well-paragraphed details
· Establish fluid and dynamic connections among different texts
· Present a sophisticated control of style and tone
· Artfully integrate and embed quoted material into their essays
I will look for a strong thesis, clear organization, an engaging and readable introduction and conclusion, and capable use of grammar, punctuation, usage, style, and tone. You’re not required to cite any other articles for this essay, but if you do please attach a works cited page.
Format: MLA. 12 pt. Double-spaced. Times New Roman (this font). 1-inch margins. Pages numbered, no number on first page. No title page—put name, instructor, class and date on first page at the top, flush left (double-spaced).