Persuasive Paper

This quarter, you will write a persuasive research paper expressing your informed opinion on an issue of current relevance. The purpose of this paper is threefold: 1. to teach you how to distinguish between a credible and a non-credible academic source, 2. to teach you how to properly cite those sources and 3. to provide practice in writing a coherent, focused argument:

Choosing a topic: It is probably best to choose a topic about which you don't know much or take the opposing side on a topic about which you care deeply. For example, if you are passionate that the death penalty be abolished, write about it as an effective tool of punishment.

Introduction: The first part of your introduction should hook the reader. You might do this by relating a story about someone affected by your issue. Or it might begin by relating a news story that relates to the issue. Or you might cite some startling statistics. You should then give your reader some context. Explain how the story relates to the topic. Make sure your reader understands the topic and how it has played out in our society. Finally, you should state your position (thesis) and your reasons for holding this position (road map). You should have at least three reasons that support your positions.

For example, if I were arguing against the death penalty, I might begin with a story about an innocent person who was wrongly convicted and then executed. I would then need to explain what the death penalty is and give a brief recount of its legal history in this country. Finally, you should state your position (thesis) and your reasons for holding this position (road map).

Body paragraphs: Your body paragraphs should explain each point in your road map.

Below are some examples of possible topics. If there is a topic not on the list below that you would like to address, please discuss it with me.

  1. Should marijuana be legal?

  2. Which is better - coeducational or single-sex schooling?

  3. Is Affirmative Action fair?

  4. Is the Affordable Care Act good for America?

  5. Should high school teachers be eligible for tenure?

  6. Should felons be allowed to vote?

  7. Should churches remain tax-exempt?

  8. Should states offer drivers licenses to people who are here illegally?

  9. Are hate crime laws necessary?

  10. Should the United States government offer reparations to the families of former slaves?

  11. Should the United State's policy of assassination of terrorists be permitted?

  12. Should protests be allowed at military funerals?

  13. Should gay couples be allowed to adopt children?