Select a topic that interests you and that affects your community directly(RGV, STC, or some other Community you consider yourself a part of). For this essay, you will identify a problem that is affecting this community. Part of your essay will be devoted to establishing why or how this issue is a problem. Also, in a subsequent part of the essay, you will also propose a solution to the problem. Part of your essay will be devoted to discussing why the solution you have proposed is a good one. Because your essay should address both of the above purposes, your thesis should mention both parts of the essay topic in some way.
Write an argumentative essay using the Classical Model that advocates a course of action to improve a problem related to your topic. The classical model utilizes the rhetorical appeals (logos, ethos, pathos) and refutes opposing arguments (concession/refutation).
Further, this is a formal, academic essay, so follow the essay conventions for academic writing–title, introduction that ends with a thesis. (Thesis may be at the end of the introductory paragraph or may be presented in a separate paragraph immediately after the introduction.) Essay must also contain well-organized, separate body paragraphs (with suitable topic sentences) that contain support for the thesis (evidence, logical argument, rhetorical appeals, etc.), transitions (at the beginning and inside body paragraphs), and a conclusion.
Your essay should be at least four full pages using the MLA format (double-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font, 1 inch margins, left-justified, etc.). The tone should be formal and respectable. The approach should view the topic honestly, fairly, and objectively. Become aware of your own assumptions and biases, so that you can temper them or relate them in a manner that does not turn off a reader. The goal, after all, is to PERSUADE someone who differs in opinion.
Your reasons (developed in your body paragraphs) must be logically arranged. They should be well thought-out and well-constructed. If they are weak or flawed, they will be easily dismissed. Your paragraphs should flow naturally, from one to the other, aided by transitional words and phrases that make it easy for the reader to keep up and avoid becoming confused. Finally, be sure that the mechanics of your paper are strong. Punctuation, spelling, and grammar will count.
You are required to use three sources of information (evaluate the sources–the publication, the author, etc.) When you add information from a source, you must cite correctly in the MLA format, when you quote, summarize, or paraphrase. If you do not, you could end up Plagiarizing, which will mean a ZERO on the assignment.
This paper is an ARGUMENT. You may need to inform, but make the details part of the persuasive approach.
SampleTopics (Before writing on any other topic, make sure you obtain instructor permission):
In the recent Covid 19 Pandemic, the RGV experienced a severe outbreak of the virus. Hidalgo County Judge instituted extreme lock-down orders for “non-essential” businesses, family gatherings, and even automobile travel. These orders differed from the direction given by the Texas Governor’s Office. Should city government officials have the authority to shut down small businesses and local establishments, keeping people out of their workplaces for extended periods of time?
