ENGL 1302 Essay #1 Instructions: Response to Arguments Length: 700+ words / 900+ (Honors)Format: MLA The opening readings this semester can be viewed in a variety of ways. On the one hand, they have

ENGL 1302 Essay #1 Instructions: Response to Arguments

Length: 700+ words / 900+ (Honors)

Format: MLA

The opening readings this semester can be viewed in a variety of ways.  On the one hand, they have each made their own case concerning a similar theme.  However, although much of their content has been similar, each author has presented his or her case with nuance and ideas not exactly explored in the other authors’ prose.  Your assignment in this essay is to respond to either a specific author’s argument or engage another component of the shared theme in your own unique manner.  Either way, you should directly interact with one or more of the texts read together in class through quotation, summary/paraphrase, and direct references. 

Hints:

• Remember, you must have a series of structured arguments.  Your essay must originate from a unique thesis related directly to one of the texts read together in class, and the majority of your own text must employ individual and original arguments that support your central claim.
• I can foresee a couple of directions with which you could pursue this assignment:
  • You might take on a single author’s work by finding something you either a.) agree with strongly, or b.) disagree with strongly.  Either way, you focus on expanding upon that single point and either exploring it further in ways that the author did not or show how that argument is faulty or incomplete.  This would allow you, especially if you agree with the author, to use the other essays in the proving/supporting of your own arguments.
  • You might also choose to compare two or more of the texts together by formulating an original thesis that requires multiple texts to prove.  This would require that your thesis center on one of the themes consistent throughout as opposed to an agreement or disagreement with a particular text.
• Use the four-part method of quotation/summary/paraphrase:
  • First, introduce the quote: this includes author, article, chapter, title…etc.  In other words, give your reader all the relevant information necessary for understanding from where the quotation arises.
  • Secondly, give context for the quote as it pertains to the original text: beyond the basic details of the text’s author, title, and other information given in the previous step, explain to your reader the role that your quotation played in its original form.  Be true to the text, and allow your reader to understand the full scope of the argument from which this quotation is lifted.  This builds credibility with your reader, because it shows a familiarity with the original text, and it lets your reader know, at least in part, the author’s intent in writing the words that you are now appropriating for your own ends.
  • Thirdly, quote the text: be sure to follow MLA quotation and documentation procedures closely to avoid plagiarizing. 

Fourth, argue your reason for quoting the text: you’ve explained to your reader many things about the text you have quoted, but now you must explain in detail how this quote accomplishes your purpose in your essay.  Be specific, and be precise, because your reader probably does not immediately understand why your quotation is relevant to your argument.  It may be completely clear to you, but you must do the hard work of explaining and arguing your point to your reader