Assignment

Review the Strategy Questions for Organizing Your Argument Essay in Chapter 5, and then write a MLA FORMAT 1000- word response to Chapter Activity #4 at the end of Chapter 9. In doing so, consider the Saint Leo University Core Value of Integrity emphasized in this course. This assignment asks you to address qualities of leadership. What is the relationship between integrity and leadership? Please include in your writing your own definition of Integrity and whether those in leadership roles are assumed to have (or demonstrate) integrity.

Chapter 9 Activity #4

While Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy were superior national leaders, everyday persons also take on the responsibilities and risks of leadership, as illustrated by Robert, the blind man, in Raymond Carver's "Cathedral" (page 442). On the other hand, Lieutenant Jimmy Cross in Tim O'Brien's "The Things They Carried" (page 488) believes he has neglected his duties as the leader of his platoon. If you were conducting a leadership workshop for your college or local community, how could you use these four individuals to illustrate key points of your presentation? What other examples-contemporary or historical, fictional or factual-might you use to illustrate leadership qualities?

Planning an Argument Essay

When creating a plan to write an argument essay, the first step is to read the assignment carefully and to make certain you understand what the instructor expects. Some instructors will give you specific topics; some may give you more freedom. Prewriting is an essential step in the writing process. Prewriting means to focus your thoughts before you begin an essay. Some might like to make lists, some might attack a blank page with thoughts as they come, and some might use note cards. There is not a single, right way to begin. After some informal prewriting and gathering ideas, it is time to get focused. Before you start writing a draft, formulate a claim and look for evidence that will build the strongest support for your argument. You might find it helpful to start by making a list or perhaps an informal outline. Try to think of this task not as a dreaded activity, but as an investment in your writing project. Taking a few minutes to write down your ideas can lead to some wonderful discoveries about your own thinking. More than likely, such an enterprise will help you ultimately structure a more formal outline to map out your paper and assist you in formulating evidence.

Creating an Informal Outline

The following structure can be useful if you want specific organizational guidelines, or it can serve as a starting point if you want to devise your own organizational plan:

Basic Structure of an Informal Outline

Introduction

• Lead-in "hook" sentences
• Concise overview of issue/rhetorical context
• Explicit claim of fact, value, or policy

Opposition

• Concise summary of key points of opposing viewpoint
• Concession/acknowledgment of legitimacy of aspects of this viewpoint
• Refutation/counterargument to address weak aspects of viewpoint

Supporting Argument

• Specific proof of claim
• Evidence grouped under three or so key points
• Strongest point presented last

Conclusion

• Restatement of claim
• Resolution, compromise, or call to action

Many students feel getting started is the most intimidating part of a writing assignment. In order to kick start your writing, you might find answering the following strategy questions helpful.

Strategy Questions for Organizing Your Argument Essay

1. Do you have a lead-in to "hook" your reader? (an example, anecdote, scenario, startling statistic, or provocative question)

2. How much background is required to properly acquaint readers with your issue?

3. Will your claim be placed early (introduction) or delayed (conclusion) in your paper?

4. What is your supporting evidence?

5. Have you located authoritative (expert) sources that add credibility to your argument?

6. Have you considered addressing opposing viewpoints?

7. Are you willing to make some concessions (compromises) toward opposing sides?

8. What type of tone (serious, comical, sarcastic, inquisitive) best relates your message to reach your audience?

9. Once written, have you maintained a third person voice? (No "I" or "you" statements)

10. How will you conclude in a meaningful way? (Call your readers to take action, explain why the topic has global importance, or offer a common ground compromise that benefits all sides?)