1. Introduction to Research project
Ms. Pankey – Language Arts

2. Purpose
Over the next several weeks, you will be writing an essay that tells your opinion about a controversial topic.
You will take a stance about a particular issue, then try to persuade your audience to agree with your opinion.
But you can’t just say “I believe this just because I do!” You have to use persuasive techniques and valid, reliable research to back up your claims.
We will discuss these in depth later!

3. Choosing a Topic
You want to choose a topic that you are interested in, but probably not something that you are already an expert in because you will be tempted not to do research, but only rely on your own knowledge.
Think about issues in the news, world, and media these days that people like to argue and discuss.
After you choose a topic, you must choose what side of the issue you will be arguing.
For example, the topic might be ‘school uniforms’ but instead of just telling you about them, I will argue for a side – either for school uniforms or against them.

4. Arguments Again, you must choose a side of the topic to argue for.
In order to persuade your audience to be on your side, you must choose a clear side of an issue or topic.
Do: “Students should not be required to wear school uniforms.”
Don’t: “There are some advantages and some disadvantages to requiring school uniforms.”

5. Arguments
The opinion your essay supports must be debatable. Ask yourself:
Would anyone argue against my opinion? What might they say? (Your answer should be “yes”)
Could I base my opinion on research or am I basing this on pure emotions?
In addition to supporting your own opinion, you will have to address the opposing opinion about that topic.

6. Project timeline
Check your instructions sheet for the TENTATIVE timeline for our project.
IT CAN CHANGE.
But, I have made it to break up the project into smaller steps and keep you on track.
Keep up and you won’t get left behind!

7. Researching
We will be researching articles that support your opinion about your topic.
Your research project must include:
2 electronic articles from AVL
1 article from an encyclopedia, book, or newspaper
On Tuesday, we will go to the library to learn more about researching.

8. Possible Topics
Here are some possible topics – but you must choose a side to argue for.
00-Persuasive-Essay-Topics.htm

9. Brainstorming 1. Current Events 2. Brainstorm List 3. Discuss in group
While watching CNN student news, identify some possible current event topics.
2. Brainstorm List
Brainstorm a list of 5-6 possible topics you would be interested in.
3. Discuss in group
Discuss your options in your group. Circle the ones that seemed most interesting to you and your members.
4. Freewrite two topics
Choose two possible topics. For five minutes each, freewrite your ideas and opinions on these topics.