Write an argumentative research essay that explores a research question related to the theme in our class. You have the freedom to choose your own topic, but your research question must be approved by the professor by March 7th.
Because this is an argumentative research essay, you will do the following:
Develop (and have approved) a research question.
At some point in the process, attend a virtual/phone conference with your professor
Complete several stages of research, including an annotated bibliography.
Create a strong, arguable thesis statement that answers your research question.
Complete a detailed research plan to help you organize your essay.
Draft, revise, edit, and submit a final, polished draft.
Purpose:
First, you combined ideas analyzed from multiple sources in the synthesis essay. At this point, you are ready to take information from multiple sources to create and support an argument of your own. Many of you have written essays similar to this in the past; the only difference will most likely be the length of the essay and the number of sources. Don’t forget that you have many resources: the library, your classmates, the writing center, and of course your professor!
Audience:
An academic audience who is interested in your topic but who may require background information in order to understand your thesis
Format:
The body should be 7-9 pages long (not counting the title page, abstract, or reference page) using APA formatting guidelines.
You are required to include a Reference page for this assignment that must include at least 7 credible sources cited in your essay.
Assessment:
Your final draft is worth 25% of your final grade. You will also receive participation / informal writing grades for the annotated bibliography, detailed plan, draft, and peer review.