Writing a Researched Argument Paper Get out a sheet of paper for Cornell Notes

What is a research paper? Research (noun) – careful or diligent search. (verb) To search or investigate exhaustively. A research paper combines two activities: Doing research Writing an academic paper What a research paper is NOT: A book report—reporting facts from one book An essay—generally all about your ideas Journalism—without bias

Research Paper: WHY?????? How to do and use research Prepare for college and the world of work Researching and writing Problem-solving and organization Self-discipline and time management Explore and share a chosen area of interest

Research Paper: Requirements 5 pages MLA style 5 sources Rough draft (best effort possible, including all necessary components) Revised final paper (following teacher and peer suggestions, accompanied by rough draft) Other brainstorming/ notecards/article research

MLA Style MLA stands for Modern Language Association Refers to the style of mechanics of writing such as punctuation, quotation and documentation of sources. Required format in Language Arts classes

What is Plagiarism? The use of another’s thoughts, words or concepts without proper attribution Considered intellectual property theft, a serious, punishable event with serious consequences Unethical Various forms: Copying from source research—articles, web sites, etc. Using a sibling’s or friend’s paper Purchasing a paper Work must be original, with all sources properly cited

Basic MLA Requirements Typed, Double-spaced Times New Roman font - 12 pt 1-inch margins Your “Works Cited” page will be an additional page. IT DOES NOT COUNT TOWARD THE FIVE PAGE LIMIT.

Why study argument? University professors, frustrated with first-year students’ inability to craft a balanced, reasoned argument, have observed that many students: confuse argument with opinion, writing self-oriented rather than reader-based papers; were black and white thinkers, unable or unwilling to address the complexities of an issue; jump on the bandwagon, going with the first authority they find without considering other points of view; Defend weak arguments simply because “it’s my opinion and I have a right to it.” 8

There is a distinction between argument and persuasion. The point of argument is to discover some version of the truth, using evidence. Argument leads audiences towards conviction, an understanding that the claim is reasonable. The point of persuasion is to change a point of view in order to move others from conviction to action. In other words, writers or speakers argue to find truth, and persuade others when they think they already know a truth. Argument (discover a truth) -> conviction Persuasion (know a truth) -> action 9 From “Everything’s an Argument”

Argumentation continuum 10

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