The Prompt
For this essay, you will consider a specific issue in criminal justice to perform research into and build an argument that takes a position on the issue. Your job is to pose an effective argument on the topic of your choosing using the research you conduct into the matter as your support.
What do I mean by argument?
I want you to create an argument about your topic. This means you must go further than simply stating something is an issue. Instead, you can create a pro/con argument, an argument for a specific solution for the issue, or for or against one side of an argument about the issue, for example. You get to decide what type of argument you want to make, which will depend on what your topic is, the type of information you learn about it, and what you determine is something important to argue for/about the topic.
Your essay must include:
A strong, clearly stated thesis that makes an argument about your topic. (Beyond that it is an issue.)
Examination of 1-2 counterarguments and a refutation of those counterarguments.
Incorporation of 15-20 sources
At least 12 of those sources must be scholarly/academic found through the library databases; one source must be a book length text
All sources must be credible. Refer to our lessons about evaluating/assessing texts to guide your research.
A strong conclusion that comments on the importance of the topic discussed and provides a call to action
Details to Include in the Essay:
A full explanation of the issue and why it is an issue
Include who is affected by the social issue
An overview of current viewpoints about the issue, including opposing sides
Historical background about the issue
How it came to be an issue, the current state of the issue
Causes and effects of the issue
Your argument about the issue
Provide strong supporting points for your argument
A counterargument to your position and a refutation of that counterargument
A solution or a call to action
Guidelines and requirements for this essay:
15-20 pages: a minimum of 15 full pages, not including the Works Cited page/Bibliography
Incorporation of 15-20 sources; at least 12 must be scholarly sources, one must be book length
MLA or APA format
Direct quotion
Include a creative/thoughtful/relevant title
Written in 3rd person only
Steps to Write This Essay
Once you pick your topic and gain a basic understanding of it and the differing viewpoints, you need to develop your own stance on the topic. For this essay, it is extremely important to establish a clear position to help guide your argument throughout the essay.
Do thorough research. It is important for you to research all sides of the topic, not just information that agrees with your position. It is required to include at least one counterargument in your essay, so you will need at least two credible sources that oppose your argument. Further, this will help you have a broad understanding of the topic, which will only help you as you write. The research you use for this essay should all be published within the last 10 years.
Develop your supporting points. Use good, credible sources to support your main claim. When you compose supporting points, you need to remain reasoned and focused. Avoid being emotional in composing your argument. That will weaken your argument and will affect the outcome. You can refer to our lessons about the rhetorical appeals, writing for purpose, and logical fallacies for this.
Rough draft: Monday, 5/23, by 11:59pm
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For this essay, you will consider a specific issue in criminal justic appeared first on Skilled Papers.