Five Paragraph Essay Assignment
Name:
Period:
Due Date: January 4th, 2011
Topic:
Your assignment is to create an essay that discusses the concept of Nationalism.
You MUST take a pro or con side one way or the other.
Option A- Nationalism is a positive addition to a nation’s culture and is necessary to
establish a sense of unity and togetherness in good times and bad.
Option B- Nationalism is an unnecessary creation (often by the leaders of a nation) to
convince people that they are superior (and others inferior) to the citizens of another
nation.
Some of the issues in this argument:
-Is nationalism a tool used by those in power to wage an unnecessary war or act on another nation?
-What are the consequences when an individual or individuals disagree with nationalistic pride?
-Since patriotism grows out of nationalism, isn’t it good to be a patriot?
-Can nationalism be used to bring a nations’ people together in time of crisis?
You may use the following websites for some helpful information:
http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/nationalism/
http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/mod/modsbook17.html
http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/nationalism/
Please carefully read the rubric to make sure that you satisfy all of the requirements for a
persuasive essay, especially in acknowledging opposing viewpoints. This essay is worth
100 points.
Use this sheet of paper as your cover page.
You will only receive this one copy so do not lose it. Good Luck.
Essay Rubric
Name___________________________
1.
1
2
2.
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
4
5
3
4
5
3
4
5
3
4
5
3
4
5
The essay is organized that expresses cohesion, focus, and momentum.
2
9.
5
The spelling, punctuation, and grammar on the writing assignment are accurate.
2
8.
4
The student concludes the topic with in a clear and concise fashion.
2
7.
3
The student supports body paragraph three with identifiable reasons and concrete evidence.
2
6.
5
The student supports body paragraph two with identifiable reasons and concrete evidence.
2
5.
4
The student supports body paragraph one with identifiable reasons and concrete evidence.
2
4.
3
The student expresses a firm thesis statement and proves the statement within the essay.
2
3.
1
The student introduces the topic in a clear and interesting fashion.
3
4
5
The student expresses a firm opinion, along with supporting reasons.
2
3
4
5
10. The student clearly has researched the topic and has correctly cited all sources.
1
2
3
4
5
Additional Comments:
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Total Points/Grade: ______________