Length: 3 to 4 pages
What: Later in the course, you will develop a 10-page major research paper that requires you to take a position on a controversial topic and then support your argument through research. With that larger project in mind, use this Proposal Essay to present plans and strategies you anticipate using in the construction of the upcoming major research paper. Inform the reader of your major research paper's controversial topic and your position on the issue; then give reasons for your selection of the topic, offer possible research source locations, and predict potential opposition to your position.
You may write about a topic of your choice, but you must have the topic approved by the instructor before you begin the project. Essays on the following general subject matter will not be approved for this assignment: abortion, euthanasia, war, religion, death penalty.
Compose multiple drafts of this proposal assignment (revising for focus, development, and organization) and edit for grammar, punctuation, and clarity of delivery.
Why: With that project in mind, this assignment allows you to brainstorm concepts and goals while strengthening your ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate main ideas for an audience and purpose. This assignment also demonstrates writing as a process that requires substantive revision, and it allows practice using writing strategies and appeals. Upon completion of the Proposal Essay, you and your instructor will have a solid grasp of your plans for the upcoming 10-page major research paper.
How: Create the Proposal Essay using process writing, ensuring your final draft is between 3 and 4 pages in length, typed, and double spaced in Times New Roman, 11 or 12 pt. font. Ensure the essay's final draft
• contains an introduction that clearly guides the reader to the purpose of the Proposal Essay.
• contains body paragraphs that explain the major research paper's controversial topic and your current position on the matter.
• predicts opposition to your position on the major research paper's topic.
• suggests research sources that might prove beneficial in the development of the major research paper.
• contains a conclusion that clearly circles back to this Proposal Paper's introduction.
• is revised until thoughts are clearly conveyed, paragraphs are logically developed, and grammar is correct.
You will be working with an OWL specialist to create multiple drafts of this assignment toward a polished, well-crafted final version of your work. For this assignment, you will be permitted to use first-person (I, my, me) point of view to express thoughts.