Task:

For this assignment, your task is to argue a position on one of the questions listed below. The focus of the assignment is creating a strong argumentative essay, including a clear thesis, body paragraphs that support the thesis, addressing a counterargument, and conclusion that extends the argument by stressing the importance of understanding the position or making a prediction about the future.

150 points/ 15% of your final grade

Assignment Specifics:

Essay Type

Argumentative essay based upon one of the 10 posted questions

Length

750 words/ points will be deducted for essays less than 700 words

Point of View

1st or 3rd person. Do not use 2nd person. First vs. Third Person | Ashford Writing Center

Audience

Academic/ interested in the argument

Sources

No sources are required for the assignment, but if sources are used, they must be documented in-text and with a Works Cited page.

Recommended Structure

  • An introduction that ends in a strong thesis that takes a position
  • Three body paragraphs in support of your position
  • One body paragraph that addresses a counter perspective
  • A conclusion that extends the conversation by making a prediction or suggesting action.

Formatting

MLA- 12pt Times New Roman, 1-inch margins

It must take a position regarding one of the 10 posted questions

  • The essay should not use any sources. You will provide your thinking and examples from your thoughts and experiences as support
  • The essay should include
    • An introduction that ends in a strong thesis that takes a position
    • Three body paragraphs in support of your position
    • One body paragraph that addresses a counter perspective
    • A conclusion that extends the conversation by making a prediction or suggesting action.
    • No Works Cited page is needed because you are not using sources
    • Length- 700 to 900 words.

Position Essay Topics

  • Which is more important: freedom or security?
  • Are online or virtual classes harder or easier than traditional in-person classes?
  • Are SAT or ACT tests necessary to determine whether a student is ready for college?
  • Should college athletes be paid?
  • Should high school students be required to study a foreign language?
  • Should the Washington Redskins have changed their name?
  • Should voting be mandatory in the United States, as it is in some other countries?
  • Is it ethical to conduct medical experiments on animals?
  • Should the government require masks and shutdowns to attempt to stop COVID or are they interfering with people’s rights?
  • Is it fair that students under the age of 18 are paid less for working the same job as individuals over the age of 18?
  • For the essay, you will take a position and answer one of these questions. For example, if the question was
  • Should college be free during the pandemic as long as students maintain a 2.5 GPA?