For this essay assignment you will be asked to compose a brief, original research- based argument. You will support your argument with documented research from a variety of sources. To complete the assignment you must compose a research-based argument about an issue related to the broad topic of technology.
In your essay you should clearly state your thesis in the form of a claim statement. You should include appropriate background information that provides an overview of the issue. You should explain the issue and analyze the issue from multiple perspectives, including your own. Your claim statement should be supported by reasons. You must provide adequate evidence to support your reasons. You should acknowledge and refute any potential opposing views to your thesis in your essay. You must provide a logical, organized conclusion that restates the thesis and your main points and includes a strong concluding statement. You should provide an organizational map for your essay. Include appropriate rhetorical appeals.
You must use a minimum of SIX sources to support your argument. Your minimum of SIX sources should be broken down as follows among these four categories:
a book (print)
a magazine (print)/ a newspaper (print)
an academic journal (print)
a personal interview
The remaining sources are left to your discretion. (Avoid using Wikipedia, Cliff Notes, or similar sources. If you have doubts or questions regarding a particular source you consult, ask the instructor.) Remember that you can use as some of your sources the material taken from the selections in Chapter 17 in The Aims of Argument: A Text and Reader. Remember to properly cite each text that you use. (For example, if you select two selections from your anthology, then provide a citation for each selection.) For all citations follow MLA style documentation. Introduce direct quotations. Include parenthetical in-text citations and a list of works cited. Follow standard grammatical conventions.