English 113: First Research-Supported Argumentative Essay

Length: 4-5 typed, double-spaced pages      Due Date:  (See your syllabus)

For your first research essay in this class you will write an argument on one of the following issues we discussed: Binge drinking on campus, the rights of smokers, animal experimentation, or the state of poetry. Your task is threefold: to define and describe some problem; to present some research related to that problem; and to focus an argument around a thesis stating your position on what should be done. This last point is extremely important. Although your essay will incorporate research, it is crucial to remember that your essay does not exist simply for the purpose of presenting research. It exists as a vehicle for you to determine and express your ideas in a sensible and organized fashion to an audience of your peers.

Working with Source Material: This research-supported argument requires that you demonstrate two things: (1) your ability to conduct limited research, and (2) your ability to synthesize your researched material into a coherent, well-organized, logically-argued, and mechanically-correct essay of your own. As you examine each writer’s views, relate them to your own knowledge and experience. Your paper "borrows" information and opinions from others (but always gives these writers credit) to support or illustrate your own thesis. The argument set forth is essentially your own, with research material playing a subordinate role. Remember to use the "sandwich" (to be explained in class later) when you use quotations in your paragraphs.

Research Expectations: Compile a prospectus and working bibliography (I will teach this in class) of 5 articles from your textbook and NC LIVE (if you use an article from a hard copy of a newspaper or magazine, you must provide me with a copy of it). General encyclopedias and dictionaries do not count as sources, although you may use them for background information or for checking facts. Give yourself time; learn to research and document properly. It is vital that you learn to search internet resources for opinions and information to use in your essay. Shaw University subscribes to a couple of research databases; you may access them from any internet-connected computer on campus (you don’t have to wait and use a terminal in the library).  The most useful database for this class is NC LIVE, where you find Academic Search Premier.  Print the web document "Using NC LIVE."

If off campus:
http://www.nclive.org   ID=Shaw University; Password = (will be communicated in class, as it is privileged information) 
Click "Academic Search Premier" and do a keyword search.

You are REQUIRED to use at least one source from your textbook and two sources from NC LIVE quoted or paraphrased with proper documentation in your paper. In other words, the minimum number of sources you will cite in your essay is three (3).  Use the MLA format and include a Works Cited page. Remember to use the proper manuscript format as shown in your book, pages 291-303.

You are ENCOURAGED (but not required) to schedule one rough draft conference with me. Bring a couple of pages and let me make suggestions for improvement.  Remember:  I hold office hours for the purpose of being available for consultation and assistance. You are paying for the privilege; come and see me. You are not limited to a single conference.

You are REQUIRED to turn in an extra copy of page 1 of your essay for a research file I am keeping.

Good writing and good luck.