RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT
Introduction:
Throughout the unit, you will focus on how to research via a standard search engine, how to use the MTC databases to find peer reviewed resources, how to determine source reliability and author credibility, how to collect and organize research, how to compile resources on a topic, and how to summarize and paraphrase on the collegiate level. You will use this research to construct and argument of your own, that supports one side of the controversial issue you explored in Unit 3. This unit will culminate in a argumentative essay, supported by strong research (NOT a research report).
Prompt:
Write an argumentative research essay that addresses a controversy related to the topic you worked with from Unit 3. What are the key points of the issue? Why is the issue important? Who is most affected by the issue? What are some of the consequences or possible solutions? You must select one side of the argument and use persuasive writing techniques (rhetorical devices) to make your point. Consider the rhetoric and research needed to persuade your audience to agree with you. Avoid logical fallacies that would weaken your argument and be sure to incorporate several sources that supplement your thoughts.
Your essay should explore one of the above topics and a related controversy (you may use those above or explore another you have found), specifically supporting one side of the issue. For example, if you chose a topic such as gun control, you should not just list out a great deal of information and explanation. Instead, you would need to take a stance either for gun control or against it and make a strong argument with several reasons that support your ideas. These ideas must then be supported by credible sources. Avoid the temptation to argue whether or not a past event should have taken place since we cannot change history. An argumentative essay should, like the one you wrote for MA 2, should allow the reader to make a decision, take an action, or consider differing perspectives from their own.
Requirements
This argumentative essay must correctly and ethically incorporate reliable and credible research that supports your argument.
The reputable sources used must include at least three sources in total; ideally, you should use those you found in Unit 3.
One of the three sources should be a journal article (from MTC databases only, not Google Scholar)
For the other two sources, you may select from journal articles, reliable websites, and reputable videos
Do NOT include sources on the Works Cited that are not directly referenced in your essay. (i.e., If you don’t quote or paraphrase from the source, it should not be on the Works Cited.)
Do not include the annotation paragraph from MA 3 on your Works Cited.
The final draft of your essay must reach a total of three full-text pages, not counting the Works Cited page. See below for more specific info.
Elements of Major Assignment 4
Topic: Write a researched argumentative essay defending one side of a controversy
Process: Using GAs 7 and 8, assigned readings, class discussions and activities, draft your paper. You will have the opportunity to receive feedback for revision from your peers as well as me. Using the feedback from your audience, revise the rough draft into the final draft, focusing specifically on content, clarity, organization, and source integration and citation.
Audience: For this assignment, your audience is your instructor and peers.
Purpose: The purpose of this piece is to persuade your audience to agree with your viewpoint, using credible sources to back up your claim
Format: The format for the final draft should be a traditional MLA essay with a Works Cited.
Length: The essay itself must reach a minimum of three full-text pages, plus a Works Cited page. This means that if your essay itself does not reach the bottom of the third page, it will not be assessed for credit. The Works Cited is not considered part of the essay.
Reflection: No reflection will be required for this unit since the final exam itself is a reflective essay.
Works Cited: You must use appropriate sources to back up your argument. MLA in-text citations are required, and assignments submitted without any MLA in-text citations or without a MLA Works Cited page cannot be assessed for credit.
Special Notes: Be careful to avoid working with other students when drafting the paper itself. While you might suggest a resource if you happen to be researching the same topic, you should not share your own notes or drafts until the day of the workshop (or feedback discussions).
Submission: Unless otherwise specified, all assignments should be typed in the MLA formatted and. Some assignments must be printed and submitted. All work should be submitted to D2L as a Word Document (.doc or .docx) or as a PDF on the due date posted in each dropbox and on the course calendar (see Syllabus). Be sure to include a heading, header, and title. Use a 12-point font of Georgia or Times New Roman.
