Name: __________________________________________________________ Date: _________________________________________________
Build Your Argument: Writing Assignment on Chinese Inventions
Directions: Please fill in the graphic organizer and write a four paragraph essay on the following question:
Which Chinese invention had the greatest impact on society?
The three main inventions were gunpowder, movable type, and the magnetic compass. Please consider the invention’s positive and negative effects.
Your essay must be typed and in MLA format!
Paragraph 1: Introduction:
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Hook/topic sentence
Introduce invention
Background information on the invention
Thesis/claim: (Example: Moveable type is the invention with the greatest impact on society).
1
Paragraph 2: Evidence and Explanation
Your evidence and explanation is facts and observations about the invention! Please consider the positive and negative effects of your invention!
Positive Effects:
Negative Effects:
Paragraph 3: Counterargument
A counterargument is an argument in opposition to another. You must offer a rebuttal or argument against the other claim. Prove to the reader that
your invention was the best!
Example: Some may argue that _____________ was an important invention because of ___________________________. However, ___________ is
the greatest invention because _________________________________________.
2
Paragraph 4: Conclusion
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Topic sentence
Restate thesis/claim
Briefly describe the significance of the invention
Leave the reader with something to think about!
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Grading Rubric
__________Introduction paragraph: hook, background, claim
__________ Topic sentences used in each paragraph
__________ Evidence/explanations provided
__________ Counterargument and rebuttal present
__________ Conclusion: restate claim/leave reader with something think about
__________ Correct spelling/punctuation
__________ MLA format (double spaced, header, heading)
__________ 4 or more paragraphs, appropriate size lengths
__________ Submitted by due date
__________ Rough draft attached
Total _________/30
4