Make a Claim
Writing Workshop - Research Based Argument Essay - Self Selected Topic - Lesson 1
Writing Workshop - Research Based Argument Essay - Self Selected Topic - Lesson 1
You will chose an issue, do research, and write an argument essay to persuade others.
First, you need to choose an issue that you know and care about. It is important to select something you actually want to change and care about. You will write a much more effective essay if you are personally invested in the argument, rather than just picking something because your teacher said to.
To help come up with an idea, think:
What would I like to change?
What do you want someone to think differently about?
What do you notice in your daily life that you wish was different?
What do you have to do that you think you should not have to do?
This should not be a wish list of things you want. Try to think of things that would actual change people's lives. It would make a difference.
For example, although you could write an argument essay about - kids should be allowed to play video games all day - that is not what we are going to do for this assignment. Think bigger. Think school. Think life.
Also, think about issues that effect kids - that effect you.
For example, although you could write an argument essay about - Is the SAT an accurate way to determine college readiness - that is not something that is probably important to you right now.
Also, it should not be something that most people believe already.
For example, although you could write an argument essay about - Smoking is unhealthy - that is something that almost everybody already believes, so why write an argument essay about this?
Make a list of possible topics. You can use a piece of paper or a post it note.
Meet with a partner and discuss your topics. What would your claim be for each? What would your reasons be for each?
Finally, decide on the one you think is best.
If you are having trouble thinking of topics or don't really love any of the ones you thought of, take a look at the list of possible topics.
Your teacher must approve your topic.
When you are finished with the assignment, here is what you can do:
Just keep writing.
Keep adding seeds.
Add to a already started seed.
Decide to take a seed through the writer’s process.
Reread your writing.
Edit your writing.
Work with a writing partner (with permission).
NEVER say "I am finished"
You need to be writing for a minimum of 30 minutes.