Researched Argument (A Thesis-Driven Research Paper)
On June 6 you will turn in a three to five page (1000 to 1500 word) researched argument (12-point font, double-spaced). You will develop and support a focused, debatable, supportable, meaningful, perhaps even original thesis (also called a claim, assertion, or position) using research you have already gathered while completing the annotated bibliography and/or new research needed to support the thesis.
The argument will incorporate at least three sources. You will use MLA format (as outlined in the Compass) to cite the sources within the text and on a Works Cited page.
Checklist for the researched argument:
[] I have written (and attached) a thesis and plan.
[] My researched argument (due June 6) meets the word count criteria (1000 – 1500 words).
[] My researched argument has a thesis that presents the focus of the argument, engages the reader, and (ideally) suggests the position I’m taking.
[] I have used MLA to format the heading.
[] My introduction builds to a thesis by introducing the issue at stake and by providing context needed to understand the thesis and its significance.
[] My revised thesis (the position being argued) is clear, debatable, supportable, and insightful; maybe it is even original.
[] My body paragraphs support and develop the thesis using "data"– direct evidence – from the cited sources as well as “warrant” and “backing” that explain how the data supports the claim.
[] I have used MLA format to cite at least three sources within the text.
[] My paragraphs are organized in a way that logically builds the argument.
[] My conclusion clarifies and intensifies the argument and its significance by explaining what the rest of the essays “adds up to” and why what it “adds up to” matters.
[] I have used MLA format to cite all the sources used in the paper on a works cited page.
[] My citations are listed in alphabetical order.
[] I have double-spaced the citations.
[] I have used hanging indentations for the citations.
[] My researched argument and works cited page are carefully proofread.
