Argument Essay Topics and Rubric
Choose 1 of the following topics to write your argument essay about. You may only choose 1 of these 8 topics. You may not choose your own topic. You will have to find 6 credible, outside sources. 3 of the sources must support your argument, and 3 of the sources must be used as sources for possible counterarguments. For this assignment, you will also create an annotated bibliography in addition to your essay and works cited page. The entire project is worth 140 points.
Topics:
2. Has the death penalty really served its purpose of being a deterrent to criminals?
Process:
• Select your topic.
• Begin researching the topic.
• Find three reasons/sources to support your argument.
• Find three reasons/sources to discount your argument.
• Evaluate the credibility of the sources.
• Begin the rough draft of your essay.
Expectations:
• Your essay should be a minimum of 3 pages and a maximum of 5 (not including the works cited page and annotated bibliography).
• Your essay should have an introduction, at least three body paragraphs and a conclusion.
• Your introduction must have a thesis statement that indicates three clear, unalike reasons to support your argument.
• Your paper must be in correct MLA format.
• Write in third person
• Keep paragraphs balanced (include the approximate number of sentences in each)
• ALL sources needed to be cited accordingly both as parenthetical citations as well as in the works cited page.