The goal is to state a clear argument (with reasons) and to support that argument with research. YOU should come up with your argument and the major points that you want to make to prove it, but just use the research to provide examples and evidence. We will discuss in class the different kinds of strengths arguments can have. Do NOT write your paper around the research, but use it to show that you know what you’re talking about.

Here are the requirements for this paper:

1. You must use at least 4 sources to provide evidence for your argument. You are encouraged to use more sources than the minimum.
2. Requirements for sources: At least 2 sources from the BC library; you may use up to 2 sources from the internet. . Can use Google Scholar.(this can replace one library source) Providing a dictionary definition or a quote from someone famous (example: Ben Franklin or your favorite musician) does NOT count toward your 4 sources, even if you found it in the library.
3. At some point in your argument, you must acknowledge the counter argument, which means that you must provide some unbiased and fair discussion of what someone might say to argue against you. We will speak in class about ways to use this to make your own argument stronger. You are encouraged to use a credible source from the “other side” to show your fairness as an informed arguer on the subject.
4. You must avoid using very polarizing or extreme language, for example: completely, absolutely, without a doubt, just, ridiculous, evil, etc. See me if you have questions about word choice.
5. You must use proper MLA format for the entire paper, including a correct Works Cited page.
6. You must have a clear, argumentative thesis statement in your first paragraph.
7. You must have an introduction and conclusion that are separate paragraphs. The intro should grab the attention of your reader without being off-topic, and a conclusion should wrap up the point without introducing major new material.
8. Your body paragraphs must each have separate, supported points that build upon one another. Try to place your strongest point where it will be most effective: toward the end of your paper.
9. Your paper must be at least 1000 words long. The word count does NOT include the works cited page.

Thesis Statement Worksheet

An argumentative thesis should fill the following criteria:

1. Be clear and specific
2. State a debatable argument with clear reasons
3. Do not state a fact or a ask question
4. Do not write “I will discuss/examine/argue”
5. Be original (do not steal someone else’s thesis statement)
6. Write ONE, complete sentence
7. Put the thesis statement as the last sentence of the introduction
8. Make sure the thesis is relevant to the assignment
9. Make sure the thesis is something interesting or relevant to your reader
10. Answer this question: so what?