Write a persuasive argument essay about racism
For your first paper you will be required to write an essay at least
nine pages long
using
in depth research to craft a persuasive argument. Choose a topic to research to gain a clear
understanding of its history, and how the topic has changed over time. Use your outside
evidence drawn from articles, news reports, internet sources, documentaries, interview, etc. to
education your readers about the subject. Your main objective for this essay is to explain how
your range of evidence works to prove a specific point about your subject. How can you
interpret and analyze the logical, ethical, and emotional evidence you have to make readers agree
with your thesis? How do you want readers to think, discuss, or act differently regarding your
topic?
Your essay needs to be clear and unified under your thesis. Make sure to include specific
evidence from your outside sources you read, to show how and why your sources support your
thesis. Use your own original ideas about your topic in conjunction with your outside evidence
to support your thesis. Make sure to review the section in your textbook on proper MLA citation
for any quotes or paraphrases you use from your outside source.
A second copy of your final draft must be uploaded and run through the Turnitin program
set up within the course blackboard page. If a student doesn’t submit their essay through the
system, their essay will not be graded until the professor can first check the turnitin reports. The
Turnitin copy must be uploaded the SAME DAY as the final draft is due; otherwise the whole
essay will be considered late, and lose points.
Grading Criteria
Successful papers will have:
1. A developed introductory paragraph, with a clear thesis. Explain what your topic is, and
what you will try and prove about your topic. Why is it important to accept your
argument? (70 points)
2. Well-supported, unified body paragraphs with specific examples that reinforce your
thesis. Express your original ideas and insight you’ve gained about your topic, to show
how and why readers should be persuaded by your argument. (80 points)
3. Smoothly integrated quotes from at least three outside sources. At least two of your
sources must be print sources (articles or books that originated in print form.)
(50 points)
4. A conclusion that summarizes your main point, and offers a final thought about the value
of your argument. What should readers do with the information you’ve given them?
(30 points)
5. Your paper will also be thoroughly edited for sentence-level errors. If you have any
questions on sentence structure or grammar, visit the Writing Center, or see me in my
office. (20 points)

