CS 4001A
Term Paper
Due: 03/31

General Description

Learning Objectives

• To apply logical argumentation in supporting a position
• To describe and summarize the fundamental arguments for and against an issue

Deliverable Format

• In general, you should compose a coherent essay supported by sound argumentation and referenced evidence that addresses the topic of the paper
• You should include a presentation of both (or all major) sides of the issue
• You should explicitly take and support (argue for) a position (which does not necessarily have to be one of those espoused by the research you locate)
• Your essay should be in the appropriate format: 12 pt, double spaced, 1" margins
• Your document should be ten to twelve pages in length
• You should include a list of references in proper bibliographic format

Grading Criteria

• 20 - Research and sources used
• 40 - Argumentation
• 20 - Demonstration of understanding of the material from the Writing Arguments
• 20 - Style and writing

Logistics

• Assigned March 1; due March 31 (in class)
• Note that there will be other work assigned concurrently with this paper!

Suggestions

• A clear statement of the claim you are trying to defend
• You should assume that your audience is the American adult public
• Explicit mention of any assumptions you are making
• Definition of any special vocabulary you use
• A clear path from assumptions to conclusions in the form of a series of justified reasons
• Support for each reason in the path (facts, authorities, logical deductions, shared values, etc.)
• Use logos, ethos, and pathos in your argument

Topic for paper