I apologize for the long description:
The Thesis
For instance, if you argued that carbon emissions are responsible for global climate change, then what should be done based on that knowledge? The answer to that question forms the central claim for this essay.
So, the simplest question to ask yourself is this: Now that I’ve proven X is a problem, what is the solution? Once you’ve determined the solution, your essay will focus on arguing for that solution.
Next, determine the other research you need. Look at other potential actions that can be taken. You will have to directly address the opposition in this essay, so have to know what opponents to your view will say.
Do additional research. You can use the general internet (Google, Bing, etc) to find information that isn’t in the databases, and, of course, you can use the library databases. You will have to evaluate internet sources for quality and credibility. Be focused in your research.
Organization
Carefully organize your essay following the structure of an Aristotelian argument.
Introduction and Narration
In writing, the first two parts of the classical argument, the introduction and narration,are often run together. In speaking, the introduction often served as an “icebreaker” for the audience. Since the writer needs to focus on grabbing and focusing attention rather than making the audience feel comfortable before beginning the argument, a written classical argument usually condenses these two elements into one. Some of the most common devices writers use in a classical introduction are a focusing event or quotation, a question, a statement of a problem or controversy, a representative analogy or case, an attack on an opposing point of view, or a confession or personal introduction. Your claim (thesis) should be stated in this portion of the essay.
Confirmation
Present the reasons and evidence that back up or substantiate your claim.
Use academic paragraphs here!
Rebuttal: Concession and/or Refutation
This section exists because arguments always have more than one side. It is always dangerous to ignore your opponents. Moreover, reasonable audiences often have more than one response to an argument. So, considering the opposing viewpoints enables a good arguer to anticipate and respond to the objections that her or his position might raise and defuse opposition before it gets started.
Conclusion
In this section the writer ties things together, creates a sense of finality or closure, answers the questions or solves the problem stated in the introduction—in other words, “closes the circle” and gives the readers a feeling of completion and balance. Sometimes writers like to add a “final blast”—a big emotional or ethical appeal—that helps sway the audience’s opinion.
Requirements:
Follow APA format
Make a Prescriptive argument
Use a balance of evidence.
Use balanced appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos.
Use at least FIVE valid and reliable sources
Document all references, whether quoting, paraphrasing or summarizing with in-text citations.
Use formal language (no first person (I) or second person (you); no slang or clichés)
The prescriptive argument should be between 1300-1500 words in length. That gives you enough room to adequately support your views and to provide rebuttal for opposing ideas.
