A Modest Proposal - Social Satire Essay
Directions: With a partner, brainstorm current social problems. If necessary, consult
local newspapers or national magazines for inspiration. Choose one of these problems to
research further. Find at least two reputable resources for the problem you’ve chosen.
Use this handout to plan your essay. Then, write a first draft of the essay, using this
handout as a structural guide. Remember to use MLA formatting for names and date,
header (with last name and page #), essay title, and internal citations and the Works
Cited page.
resource citation 1:
resource citation 2:
Use these resources to answer the following: (You do not have to find all of this info.
This is suggested info. to use to introduce your topic in your first paragraph of the essay.)
1. When did the problem begin?
2. What is the nature of the problem?
3. Who does the problem affect?
4. How does it (or will it) affect all of us/our community?
5. What has been done about the problem to date?
6. What are some of the proposed solutions?
Next, develop your own satirical solution. Like that proposed by Swift, your
solution should be preposterous enough to demonstrate its absurdity and point out the
serious nature of the problem.
Explain your satirical solution here:
(Be very detailed about what the plan is, how it will work/be executed, and how it
benefits various members/groups of society.)
Then, present logical, feasible solutions, but do so in a way that mimics Swift’s
satire. In other words, list logical solutions, but maintain your satirical voice by saying
that these solutions are “ridiculous,” “laughable,” “will never work,” etc.
Finally, develop a closing that sums up why this is such a huge problem and again
advocates for the importance of your proposed (satirical) solution.
“A Modest Proposal” Social Satire – Grading Rubric
Introduction: problem explained, research included and documented correctly – 20 pts
Satirical solution: explained thoroughly, 2-3 advantages given – 50 pts
Feasible solutions: mentioned, made to seem illogical – 20 pts
Closing: satirical solution restated, convincing – 10 pts
Total _____________