Module Essay Instructions: Taking a position on an issue and presenting evidence to persuade the reader There will be 5 topic modules this semester. I will choose the first topic, and the class will choose the other four through an anonymous vote. You will write an essay on each module. You will write the essays with the same exact instructions, only the topics will change. One of the most common types of writing in college (and life) is where the author (you) takes a position on a topic/issue, and attempts to persuade the reader that the authors position is the best position on the topic/issue. Authors do this by making reasonable claims and presenting evidence to back up those claims. You should read Chapter 11(Arguments) in Writing Today before beginning. There are some good example essays there as well. Requirements: Each essay should be 2-3 pages (at least 500 words) using correct formatting (see How to format a paper handout on eLearn). Each essay must use at least 2 sources (from class or from outside research) Each essay must have an MLA Style Works Cited page and use correct in-text citations. Each essay should follow the following format: o Introduction including a thesis statement o Explain the topic/issuedefine terms o Body Paragraphs where you present your evidence (PIE structure) o Conclusion Essays will be submitted by the due date as indicated on the course schedule and on eLearn. I do not accept late work. See the syllabus for additional information.

Module Essay Instructions: Taking a position on an issue and presenting evidence to persuade the reader There will be 5 topic modules this semester. I will choose the first topic, and the class will choose the other four through an anonymous vote. You will write an essay on each module. You will write the essays with the same exact instructions, only the topics will change. One of the most common types of writing in college (and life) is where the author (you) takes a position on a topic/issue, and attempts to persuade the reader that the authors position is the best position on the topic/issue. Authors do this by making reasonable claims and presenting evidence to back up those claims. You should read Chapter 11(Arguments) in Writing Today before beginning. There are some good example essays there as well. Requirements: Each essay should be 2-3 pages (at least 500 words) using correct formatting (see How to format a paper handout on eLearn). Each essay must use at least 2 sources (from class or from outside research) Each essay must have an MLA Style Works Cited page and use correct in-text citations. Each essay should follow the following format: o Introduction including a thesis statement o Explain the topic/issuedefine terms o Body Paragraphs where you present your evidence (PIE structure) o Conclusion Essays will be submitted by the due date as indicated on the course schedule and on eLearn. I do not accept late work. See the syllabus for additional information.