Developing a Problem Claim
Developing a Problem Claim Definition, Cause/Effect, Narrative, & Background ASSIGNMENT DIRECTIONS: Review the discussion for claims of definition and claims of cause in The Practical Argument, including section 7, part 3. Write a claim of definition, establishing that a problem exists and defining terms and/or claim of cause, establishing causes, effects, or a cause/effect relationship. Essentially, your claim should define, explain the problem, provide background as needed, and include causes, effects, or a cause/effect relationship. Be sure to define terms as needed. Consider audiences (friendly, neutral, and hostile) and be sure to provide evidence that appeals to pathos, logos, and ethos. As with all argumentative essays, you must provide relevant and sufficient evidence to back your own supportive points to advance your thesis. A good rule to follow is to provide at least one piece of evidence (quote, paraphrase, or summary) per supporting reason to back your secondary claims. This means you should use approximately 4-5 different sources in your paper. Support your claim thesis with your own points, using research as evidence and backing only. Do not stack evidence (quote on top of quote). Focus on one specific point per paragraph, and allow yourself time to explain the significance of the included evidence to your readers. For this argumentative essay, you will want to make sure to address the counter argument in your paper You must use MLA format to properly document your sources. This includes proper in-text citations and a complete Works Cited. Your essay must be a minimum of 3-1/2 pages long, not including the Works Cited, using size 12 font. Your essay should be relatively free of language errors. If you still have questions or are unclear on any aspect of this assignment, it is your responsibility to ask questions. Suggestions: Make sure your writer’s voice is clear and distinct. The introductory and conclusion paragraphs are great places to establish your voice and tone of your claim. Think about how you might appeal to pathos and ethos. When establishing your supportive points, assert your own voice by using your own language. Use evidence only as backing, but remember to explain all evidence (quotes and paraphrases) to your readers so that they can fully appreciate the significance of the included research. Conclude body paragraphs with your own statements that explain how the evidence shows the problem, cause, etc. Finally, don’t forget to include transitional phrases or clauses at the paragraph level and sentence level to help create smooth continuity (flow) in readability.
