Shakespeare Debate

Grade 12H Research Paper Assignment


A major writing requirement for Grade 12 English is a researched persuasive paper in connection to a work of literature. This requirement is common for all grade 12 students taking English at CHS.


So… what do you need to do to meet this writing requirement?


Well, we’ve spent a lot of time reading Macbeth and in many cases, complaining about it. If you are one of the complainers, you’re not alone; in fact, for years, teachers and English scholars have argued about the value of making Shakespeare a requirement. Studying Shakespeare is a Common Core requirement for all high school students in public schools, but the question is: Why???


Now that you have studied Macbeth, you can offer an educated opinion…


Your research assignment is to figure out the answer to this question:

Should high school students be required to read Shakespeare? If so, then why? If not, then why not?

Paper requirements:


  • At least 4 academic sources –one must support the opposing argument.
  • Use of Macbeth as one example to support your argument (you might also consider Othello and/or Romeo and Juliet)
  • 4-7 pages of content in MLA format with references page/s.
  • *In addition to gathering scholarly opinions, you might also research literary criticism on Macbeth or the author, William Shakespeare.
  • Total points available for this assignment: 255

Steps 1 and 2: 30 points

Step 1: Develop a thesis (your initial response to the prompt)

Step 2: Find at least 4 scholarly articles/ essays – at least one in favor and one opposed. Get your sources approved and then read, annotate, and cite them on a Work Cited page. (Find 1-2 usable ideas/facts from each source.)

Step 3: 50 points: Outline your argument – thesis and at least 3 main supporting points with evidence from the scholars and your reading of Macbeth (and maybe other readings of Shakespeare).

Step 4: 25 points: “Glue” the outline together by composing an introduction, developing and discussing your facts and drafting a conclusion - submit a first draft.

Step 5: 150 points: Turn in a final MLA formatted 4-7 page research paper with all research notes. The reference pages are not part of the 4-7 page requirement.