Anubis

For your third paper, you will write a 1200 word (minimum) persuasive argument essay, using outside research to prove the existence of a well-known mythical creature.

1. First, choose a mythical creature. You may choose from the list at the end of these guidelines, or come up with your own idea.

a. This mythical creature must be one that is at least somewhat well-known and has an established cultural history. Monsters of your own invention and/or satirical monsters are off-limits. However, any creatures of urban legends (including internet-based ones) are up for grabs, as long as there is an element of “this could be real!” in the stories.

b.Note, you yourself do not have to actually believe in the existence of this creature.
In fact, it’s preferable that you don’t.

2. Research your creature. You are required to have a minimum of 6 sources for this paper. Focus especially on sources that include “eyewitness accounts,” historical records, or scientific studies, as those kinds of things will come across as more persuasive.

a. Your sources can be a variety of different types. You can use websites and journal
articles, but you are also free to use video “documentaries” as well, as long as they are
presented as real life and not as obvious fiction.

b. All sources, including both direct quotes and paraphrased information, must be properly
cited in MLA format, with a Works Cited page at the end.

c. Do not use Wikipedia, Quora, or any other crowdsourced website as a source. You
may, however, use Wikipedia’s footnotes to find other possible sources. If you find a
source and you aren’t sure if it will be acceptable, feel free to ask.

3. Write a persuasive argument trying to convince me that your creature is real, using the information from your sources to back up your claims.

Organize your points using the elements of argument we discussed in class:
a. Claim: Your thesis, the main point you are trying to prove (e.g. “Sasquatch is real”)
b. Grounds: The grounds are the basic persuasive points you use to support your claim (e.g.
“Sasquatch is real because people have seen him”)

c. Backing: Backing is the all the details, evidence and appeals you use to make your
grounds seem more believable (e.g. cases of people who have seen Sasquatch)

d. Counterargument/Rebuttal: Acknowledge what the skeptics would say, and provide a strong argument against them.