Jonathan Swift's proposal is powerful because it is so outrageous. His exaggeration, irony and sardonic wit force his reader to examine hunger in Ireland. What social issue is most pressing today? What do you wish you could fix with your magic pen?

Choose one topic of social concern. Then, model Swift's style by writing your own "Modest Proposal" essay. You may need to re-read Swift's "Proposal" for inspiration or help with the format.

Your essay must contain the following elements:

1. An introduction of the issue and its impact on society
2. An outlandish proposal
3. An enumerated list of at least four reasons your proposal will work.
4. A list of practical solutions that "no man should talk of."
5. A conclusion that highlights the speaker's sincerity.

http://www.victorianweb.org/previctorian/swift/modest.html