Argumentative Essays

Course Title: Composition 11

Teacher: Ms. Moore

moorema@alumni.ubc.ca www.msmooresclassblog.weebly.com

Assignment: You are going to write an essay that argues a point-of-view on a topic of
your choosing.
Your essay must include:
Explanation of the issue
Clear thesis statement that presents your
position
A summary of the opposing arguments
Rebuttals to the opposing arguments Your
own arguments to support your position
Either block or point-by-point structure

Requirements:
Your name, date, block, and title at
the top of your essay
A minimum of 4-5 paragraphs
Size 12, Times New Roman font
Standard 1 inch margins
Bibliography

Course Schedule/Timeline:

Week 1:
February 29
March 4
Week 2:
March 7 March
11
Week 3:
March 29 April 1
Week 4:
April 4 April 8
Week 5:
April 11 - 15

Introduction to Argumentative Writing

Choosing a topic & How to Research
Topic and position chosen (Wednesday)
Research notes completed (Friday)
Introduction to Argumentative Writing
Purpose, components, and structure
Thesis Statement & Introduction
Essay Outline
Review of Structure & Transition Signals in Argumentative Writing
Quiz: block pattern and point-by-point pattern
Essay Writing & Peer-Editing
Unit Check-up
Draft #1
Draft #2
Revisions and Reflections
Final Essay due
Reflection and Checklist due

Grading:

Journals/On-time quizzes: 10%

Quiz: 5%
Unit Check-up: 10%
Proposed Topic and Research Notes:
10%
Essay Outline: 15%
Final Essay, with reflection and
checklist: 50%

Work Ethic and Behaviour: will be assigned a G

(good), S (satisfactory), or N (needs
improvement) for the term.
This includes punctuality and attendance,
productivity, and respect for self and others.