Solved: Writing Assignment #1-THE DEFINITION ARGUMENT ESSAY

Assignment Overview: Many times, controversy is based upon confusion and misunderstandings. Whether you believe it or not, though, you have vast knowledge of things around you and can help to clear up any confusion. This essay prompts you to do just that. For this essay, your task is to make a definition claim about a topic you know well. For example, you could define and analyze why certain policies or procedures exist. In addition, you could explore why animals should or shouldn’t have rights, how education impacts society, etc. In the essay, you should define the issue clearly, analyze the issue to help your readers understand the consequences and impact of the issue and make a claim that defines which criteria has caused the issue to occur to begin with. Be sure to give enough details, facts, and examples to support your definition and solution. The purpose of the essay is to understand and convey the process and product of effective argumentation and attain the ability to link an argument to the values and beliefs of the intended audience. You need to develop an effective claim (thesis) and provide evidence, examples and support for your thesis. Primary Tasks: In your essay, you will be required to:
  • Make a definition claim on an issue that is important to you
  • Identify the key terms and define the criteria
  • Analyze how this issue and claim affects your readers
  • Articulate assumptions and beliefs commonly held regarding the issue
  • Analyze opposing views and provide examples and details to support the views
  • Provide a possible solution or solutions to support the claim
  • Use persuasive speech to articulate the problem and convey the possible solution
  • Provide your personal view and evidence to support it and explain why you feel this way
Self-Assessment: Your Definition Argument essay will be assessed and grading based on the following criteria:
  • Does the essay clearly set out the issue, concept or controversy and establish background information about the topic in the introduction? Is a clear thesis/position identifiable? Does the introduction capture interest?
  • Does the essay provide all crucial elements of a definition argument, including outlining the criteria, offering supporting arguments and addressing opposing views?
  • Does the writer guide the reader through the problem, instruct, persuade and entertain?
  • Is the introduction and conclusion thorough and engaging? Does the essay capture interest? Are transitions used to enhance the flow of the essay? Does the essay have a clear main point and a recognizable thesis statement?
  • Is the thesis supported throughout the essay? Is the essay organized in a logical fashion? Is the writing persuasive? Does the essay “show” vs. “tell?”
  • Does the essay demonstrate control over grammar, spelling, and punctuation?
Keep in mind that you, of course, want to follow the conventions of the language, which means use good grammar and apply the rules of punctuation appropriate for academic writing. The final draft should be 1000 words. Supplemental Instruction: It’s imperative that you review Chapter 8: Definition Arguments before determining a topic or drafting. The textbook features essay samples that detail the style and tone options you have available. In addition, complete the following activities to better prepare for this assignment (this is required). Brainstorming Activity: Make a list of five “issues” or common problems that you are passionate about in each category below to begin brainstorming for the Definition Argument Essay. Try and narrow these issues so that they are local and pertinent to you, your family or your community.
  • Ways You’re Involved in the Community:
  • Issues You Foresee in the Workplace:
  • Family Concerns:
Template for a Working Outline: Complete the following outline to ensure you have all the components of a Definition Argument included in your essay.
  • Thesis Statement:
  • Primary Issue You Defining:
  • Supporting Criteria:
  • Supporting Criteria:
  • Alternative Views:
  • Rebuttal:
  • Possible Solution: