Choose an issue you genuinely care about. Using the approach we practiced in class, analyze your issue from three relevant contexts; these will become the three body paragraphs of your analysis. T
Issue Analysis Paper
Introduction
Par 1: Hook. Topic Sentence introducing the issue in general terms --- your overall topic should be named overtly here. Background information and current state of affairs. Rebuttal of strongest opposing argument(s). Thesis clearly defined and with any conditions/parameters.
Body Paragraph
Par 2: Topic sentence for first focal argument (or context --- see list and definitions on left-hand menu of Ulearn). Argument laid out clearly (and currently). Concrete examples to illustrate your point. Transition sentence into next focal argument (or context). Transition sentences are meant to shift your reader away from one topic towards the next topic. For instance, “Not only does domestic violence violate our laws, it is profoundly damaging to the medical and psychological wellbeing of victims and witnesses.”
Par 3: Topic sentence introducing second focal argument. Argument laid out clearly (and currently). Concrete examples to illustrate your point. Transition sentence into next focal argument (or context). Transition sentences are meant to shift your reader away from one topic towards the next topic.
Par 4: Topic sentence introducing third focal argument. Argument laid out clearly (and currently). Concrete examples to illustrate your point. Transition sentence into next focal argument (or context). Transition sentences are meant to shift your reader away from one topic towards the next topic.
Conclusion
Par. 5: Conclusion. The conclusion of an argument/persuasive essay is essentially a commentary regarding the issue, keeping in mind that your primary audiences are those who disagree with you. This is your final shot at moving your audience, so it should be heartfelt and powerful.
* I do not want in-text citations or a works cited with these. If you are using an example from a secondary source, simply say so by using attribution, “according to Josh Rogan of The New York Times…” or “Tis is clearly exemplified in Seth Ford’s article …”.
