Essay 3: Argument
English 101 Fall 2003
College Writing


(Bring typed draft to class 10/13)

Overview: As the basis for this two to three-page (500-750 word) essay, you will choose one of the ten offered topics to explore.  After considering various aspects of the issue, you should frame a position and then defend it with appropriate evidence and reasoning.   

Hint: A strong essay will usually move beyond simply "Pro" or "Con" responses to the broad issue, taking a unique or at least specifically chosen perspective.

Process:

  1. Prewriting
      1. In-class prompts on freewriting, listing, and clustering
      2. In-class summary paragraph, proposing restricted topic
      3. In-class exercise (5 invention questions) to deepen and refine
  2. Planning
      1. Working thesis statement, introductory paragraph
      2. LAB (Friday) - revision of working thesis, introduction
      3. Give yourself a working title
      4. Follow Barnet guidelines for organizing an argument (198-205), produce an outline
  3. Drafting
      1. With your materials all accessible, begin drafting.
      2. If you draft by hand, type your rough draft and bring it to class for peer critique MONDAY; draft must be at least 500 words, typed, and titled.

 

 
Courses | Sherwood |IUP English | IUP
Last Updated: 09 December, 2008