For this assignment, turn in 300 or more words (one page minimum) summarizing the researched argument you wish to undertake.
Now is the time to narrow down the subject you described in the "Topic Proposal" assignment and turn it into a claim. Consider whether your claim can be argued persuasively in a ten-to-twelve page paper. Remember that the final product you submit will have to balance the sense that your argument has been presented as convincingly as possible with the limitations imposed by length.
In fulfilling this assignment, review chapter eight in Everything's an Argument ("Structuring Toulmin Arguments"). Pay special heed to
- the soundness of your enthymeme (claim + reason),
- the plausibility of your warrant,
- the sufficiency of your evidence (both backing and grounds),
- your judicious use of qualifiers,
- the necessity of anticipating and countering rebuttals to your argument.
In explaining what position you are taking up, discuss the following:
In what way is the subject contestable (see Topic Proposal)? Describe the two (or more) sides of the issue.
What side are taking? Why?
What kind of reader will disagree with you? Attempt picturing in your mind's eye who he or she might be. Try to call to mind specific members of the class--the very people you will be trying to convince. Bonus points will go to students who take controversial stands, ones that arouse opposition on the part of one or more of their colleagues. Begin considering how you are going to counter objections.
In your position paper, include an enthymeme (claim + reason) and some discussion of its warrant. If your warrant is controversial, consider what kind of support for it (called "backing") will you need.
What kind of evidence ("grounds") will you amass from various sources to support your opinion? Be specific: name a few of your sources and how you plan to use them.
|