Documented Argument
The Argumentative Essay
Academic research is not research to support an idea or opinion that you already have. Academic research means finding a question and seeking answers to that question. Academic research involves becoming an expert on the topic which you are researching. That means that you must know all of the relevant issues and sides of the topic; not only the ones that support your view. This involves in-depth research that goes beyond the seven required sources.
You will use the material you have researched to write a formal research paper similar to that expected in other college courses. The final draft of the essay will be between 7 and 10 pages in length. The paper should be double-spaced, 12-point font, with 1-inch margins. (Microsoft’s default margins are 1 ¼’) You will use your research to become somewhat of an authority on the problem/issue you chose. You will demonstrate your level of authority by
Addressing a problem or issue
Explore multiple sides of the problem or issue
Defend your position
Explore the solutions proposed by others
You will use standard APA formatting for this essay. APA citation styles will be discussed in class but not every variation will be covered. Refer to your A Writer’s Resource text, the Library, the Purdue OWL, and the Writing Center for more complete coverage.
You must turn in a documented argument to pass the class. Plagiarism, as define in the course syllabus is grounds for failing the assignment as well as failing the course.
Source Requirements
You will need at least seven recent periodicals or books cited in your final essay. (A good rule of thumb[1] – the number of sources = the number of pages.)
Periodicals should be scholarly or high-level news periodicals featuring full-length essays. National newspapers such as The New York Times or The Washington Post may be appropriate but local newspapers may but require prior approval.
One of your sources must support opposing views. No more than one scholarly or unbiased Internet site may be used. Failure to have at least 7 scholarly/academic sources or using more than one scholarly or unbiased Internet site will result in a grade reduction of at least 5%.
Caveat – Certain research topics may require the use of more than one Internet site. The topic and Internet sites must be approved by me in advance.
[1] A rule if thumb is only a guide. Your documented argument may require more than the required 7 sources, but do not over use quotations.
