essay 2: the Researched proposalEssay 2: Grading Rubric |
Essay Two will be a researched proposal argument
|
Introduction
See Chapter 4 of A Little Argument for a full discussion of the proposal, with an example (pages 116-130).
In this essay (900-1300 words), you will research a controversy (2-4 sources), identify a persistent problem, and propose a course of action to cope with the problem related to our course theme of incarceration (please note that this proposal will be more successful if you narrow your topic to something manageable within that theme). While you will demonstrate your ability to work within the argumentative genre of the proposal, you may draw upon other types of arguments (e.g., causal, definition, etc.) as needed.
|
Audience as Context: While your proposal will take the form of a researched essay, you should identify an audience that you would like to persuade with your argument. Possible audiences include the general public, a specific community affected by the problem, those in power that can enact the proposed change, or members of an opposing party that hold a different set of beliefs or values than you. As a writer, you will need to make careful choices about how to best appeal to your audience and tailor your reasons, evidence, etc. to them. Sections 1 and 3 of your proposal (see next page) will need to be carefully crafted.
|
The Proposal should have four main parts, as follows:
|
Nuts & Bolts
|
Details
(Note: the three sections outlined above are not meant to be accomplished in one paragraph each; the number of paragraphs will vary per task. If you have a rationale for deviating from this structure, that’s fine; you just might want to discuss it with me ahead of time.) |
Final Note on Research! If other proposed solutions to the problem already exist, you should address these in your paper and refute them (while making concessions) in favor of your own. You do not need to reinvent the wheel; it is fine to align yourself with a proposal made by others that you find through RESEARCH and present then persuade your own audience through your presentation and discussion of that research.
|
Photo at the top of this page was taken from Jesse Krimes mural Apokaluptein:16389067