Teacher Instruction
Select a topic from the current events/pros and cons issues that are available through the Librarys Online Databases.  I like CQ Researcher and Issues: Understanding Controversy and Society. Drawing on your thoughts and research, write an argumentative, researched essay of 1125-1500 words on one of those topics. Because this paper is an argument, the essay must also present a counterargument, supported by reliable evidence, and a rebuttal.

I have excluded the following topics: Gun Control; Abortion; Legalizing Marijuana; The Affordable Care Act (aka: Obamacare); The Death Penalty.
You must state your position clearly and firmly, develop it fully, and illustrate it with specific evidence. The essay must include both in-text citations and a Works Cited. You are required to use four secondary sources, critical essays available through the Library; these sources must have an author(s). Be sure to give your essay a title. 
I expect each student to: 
Offer an argument, one that is original to him/her. An arguable topic has some issues surrounding it that are a matter of contention between two or more parties.
Support the argument.  This support comes from research and the writers experience. 
Ensure that the document is accurate by checking facts, quotations, and spelling of names.
Present a clearly discernible claim (one of the five types) that is support by appropriate reasons and evidence.
Cite material from a minimum of 4 reliable sources as evidence in support of the claim.
Cite material from at least one reliable source that presents a counterclaim to your position.
Present an effective rebuttal to the counterargument.
Review the document for proper use of citations, both internal and end-of-text citations. Adhere to MLA formatting throughout.
Double space and employ a standard 12 pt font (Arial or Times New Roman).
Check spelling, grammar and punctuation. You may ask someone to proofread your draft. 
I will not grade an essay that does not meet the minimum requirements for word count and sources used. I will not grade an essay without an appended Works Cited. I will not accept late papers, no exceptions. 
Model for Paragraph in Research Essay: Sent. 1 is the Topic Sentence (Sentence can be short); Sent. 2 offers the main point to be developed in paragraph and announces its importance; Sent. 3 offers a quote as evidence or support; Sent. 4 offers analysis of key words or ideas from quote or narrative; Sent. 5-9 highlight the progression of the argument; Sent. 10 is the concluding sentence.