Topic: Cyberbullying
Paper details:
Write the essay:
In your essay, you will develop your own theory about your subject.
In developing your theory, you must focus on several things:
have a clear topic statement (your theory stated in one or two sentences)
relate any necessary background information at the outset for your reader; this can be done in an introductory paragraph
use research (sightings, historical data, interviews, investigative data, etc.) to convince your reader; your opinion is not enough, so you must use at least 3 sources.
document your research using MLA format
take your reader step by step through the essay so that, at the end, the reader has reached the same conclusion that you have
Your essay should be at least 800 words, but no more than 1200, plus a correct MLA
Works Cited page at the end (last page).
How to write the essay (at least 800 words)
Guidelines for Writing the Argumentative Essay
Introduction:
Gain the reader’s attention and interest.
Possible ways to gain interest:
A personal anecdote illustrates the writer’s involvement within the topic, as well as moves the topic from the abstract to the real.
Examples, both real (have happened) and hypothetical (have the potential to happen) can also help to illustrate the problem.
Posing an interesting question can also generate reader interest; however, the question should be answered within the course of the paper.
A quotation can provide a branch for discussion. Quotations, however, should be made relevant to the topic of the paper.
An explanation of shocking statistics or the presentation of a striking image can also invite the audience to continue reading the paper.
Establish your qualifications to write about the topic.
Establish common ground with readers and demonstrate fairness.
State argument (What Is and What Ought To Be).
Background:
Present necessary background information (may include pertinent personal experience).
Body paragraphs with arguments that support the writer’s opinion. Clear discussion of the arguments supported by the sources.
Argument:
Present good reasons in support of your argument; include both logical and emotional appeals.
Cite reliable authorities and establish their expertise.
Demonstrate ways your argument may be in the best interest of your readers.
Transitional paragraph. Includes a summary of supporting paragraphs and introduces the counter-argument.
Paragraphs of the first rebuttal of the counter-argument: Paragraphs of rebuttal should be supported by the sources.
The basic structure of rebuttal is as follows:
1 – start with rebuttal sentence ;
2 – support your opinion by source (quote, paraphrase or summarize); 3 – Explain source.
Paragraphs of 2nd and 3rd rebuttal.
Opposing Arguments:
Examine alternative points of view:
Do not overlook the importance of considering the views of the opposition within your own argument.
Note the advantages and disadvantages of alternative views.
Explain why your view is better.
Concluding Paragraph:
Summary of the primary points and restatement of the argument. May also include recommendations for further actions in this area
The conclusion should work to reemphasize the main claims of your argument, restating the importance of the argued position and, when appropriate, the reader’s need to take action on the issue.
May briefly summarize your argument
Elaborates on the implication of your topic
Makes clear what you want the readers to think or do
Makes a strong ethical or emotional appeal
Works Cited:
Must include 3 researched and reliable sources no older than 2005 copyright.
Alphabetical listing of sources cited in the essay. MLA format.
