Name: ________________________________
Date: ____________
Intelligence Essay Assignment
AP Psychology
Mr. Gambale
Directions: Intelligence is an extremely controversial topic in psychology. The debate starts
with the simple question, “Does intelligence exist?” The next question is then, “If intelligence
exists, what is it?” Finally, psychologists ask, “If intelligence exists and can be identified, is it
important?” Your assignment is to choose one of these questions, research it and write an essay
defending one side of the debate. Of course, in defending your side of the debate, you must also
provide a concession paragraph in which you acknowledge the validity of the other side.
In order to earn full credit the following criteria must be met:
Thesis: A clear concise thesis statement is presented which take a position on one side of the
presented questions.
Arguments: Each argument presented is clear, persuasive and defends the thesis statement.
Concession Paragraph: A clear summary of the opposing viewpoint is presented with citations.
Readability: The paper is grammatically correct with no spelling or stylistic flaws.
In-text citation: In text citations are presented for all information presented in APA format.
Works Cited: A works cited is presented in APA format with at least three (3) peer refereed
journal references AND two other sources.
Topic
Points Earned
Thesis
Argument 1
Argument 2
Argument 3
Concession Paragraph
Readability
In-text citation
Works Cited
Total:
Points Possible
5
5
5
5
10
5
5
10
50
Final Grade = _____ x 2 = _____%
*** Please attach this sheet to the front of your paper when you turn it in. ***
Good Luck, Have Fun and May “g” be with you!!