English 3

Is the conclusion and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. (“Informational: Writing Resources.” )

An argumentative paper generally involves extensive research, much more so than an information or problem-based research paper. (Brown)

Argumentative papers take a stand on an issue and defend that position. These papers start with the writer's opinion on a debatable or controversial issue. The body of the paper explains why the writer has taken the stance he has and includes data and evidence that will convince the reader that the writer's opinion is the correct one. (“The Difference between Analytical Research Papers and Argumentative Research Papers”)

 Remember, this is not an argument with your friends but a formal paper.  Keep the “tone” of the paper calm, concise and professional.  You need to explain both (or all) sides of the topic and then provide sound, concise evidence that shows your position is the best one. (Watterson).

CHOOSE A TOPIC THAT INTERESTS AND CHALLENGES YOU. MAKE SURE IT CAN BE SUPPORTED BY RESEARCH. FOCUS ON THE TOPIC - NOT TOO BROAD, NOT TOO NARROW.

 Can choose from most social issues except ** Abortion Gay Marriage Marijuana Legalization Gun Control Creationism/Evolution ***”Why can’t I do these?” you may ask. - They have been done to death… Your audience has heard all the arguments. - It is hard to maintain a formal objective tone with these issues; some students become too emotional on these topics. - Some passion for your topic is good but you still have to maintain your objectivity. - Also, some of you have already done papers on these topics and just resurrect the same information again and polish it up.

 REQUIRES APPROVAL FROM YOUR TEACHER.  I WILL BE HAPPY TO HELP YOU IF YOU RUN INTO PROBLEMS. (“Mitt Romney 2012!”)

 SIRS Issue Researcher Username: ky0933h Password : 2794  Destiny Online Catalog Access under Quick Links on Blazer webpage or go to Academics/Library Media Page and click on Destiny.  eLibrary Username: pblazerhs Password: welcome  Boyd County Public Library Databases Click on databases and choose Point of View or Opposing Viewpoints databases and enter library card number for password.

Brown, Marie. “What are the Basic Steps for Doing a Research Paper?” eHow.com. N.P. : EHow, n.pag. “California Writing Standard 2.3.” The California Language Arts Content Standards. Sacramento, CA : California Dept. of Education, c2010. n.pag. “The Difference between Analytical Research Papers and Argumentative Research Papers.” Research Papers. N.P. : Wetpaint, n. pag. “Informational: Writing Resources.” East Side Union High School District. San Jose, CA : East Side Union District, c n.pag. “Mitt Romney 2012!” Mitt Romney Central. N.P. : Nate Gunderson, Watterson, Bill. Calvin & Hobbes. Kansas City, MO : Andrews and McNeal, c1995. p. 212.