English 098
Spring 2006
Issue/Argument Essay
In this essay you will present an issue in the form of an argument. Your goal is to present
evidence in such a way as to persuade your readers to agree with your particular point of view
(and if they can't agree, they should at least be able to acknowledge that you have good reasons
for your position). The bottom line: give your readers something to think about!
Refer to class notes, course handouts, Keys for Writers, Models for Writers, and New Voices.
This essay must: be 4-5 pages in length
be in MLA format
contain a clear thesis
present supporting evidence
be well organized
contain in-essay citations (using a minimum of two reliable sources)
contain a Works Cited page
Note on sources: If you choose to use more than one essay from Models for Writers as
sources, they will only count as one source; you will need to find, at least, one other
reliable source to meet the assignment requirement.
You may choose one of the following suggestions:
1--After reading "Diversity Is Essential . . ." (Lee C. Bollinger) and ". . . But Not at This Cost"
(Armstrong Williams) in Models for Writers, respond to either Writing Assignment number 1
or number 2 found on pages 533-534. Or, you might consider developing an argument using
the questions listed in Writing Assignment number 2 found on page 538.
2--K. Connie Kang ("A Battle of Cultures") and Judith Ortiz Cofer ("And May He Be
Bilingual") suggest that cultural insight and education are key to conquering the fear of the
unfamiliar that seems to be at the root of discrimination and prejudice. Make an argument in
support of or against their suggestions that we can all learn through the immigrant experience
how to better adapt to America's multi-cultural society.
3--The passing of HR4437 in the House of Representatives has created much controversy in the
United States about how the government should deal with the issue of illegal immigration. In
class and through our readings, we've discovered that there are several other suggested
policies. In your essay, suggest a solution to the illegal immigration concerns in the U.S.,
remembering to consider all sides of the issue. Or you might consider developing an argument
for or against existing immigration policies and/or suggested policies that you have become
aware of. Remember to support your points(s) and acknowledge opposing viewpoints.
4--What does the proposition, found in HR4437, of building a 700-mile wall between Mexico
and the United States suggest to all Americans in the U.S.? To the people of Mexico? Argue
for or against building such a wall as a response to the issue of illegal immigration.
5--In his essay "The Ways of Meeting Oppression" and his "I Have a Dream" speech, Martin
Luther King Jr. suggests that an oppressed people, in their struggle for gaining a rightful place
of full stature as American citizens, must not use "inferior methods" or "be guilty of wrongful
deeds." He recommends nonviolent resistance as the method for protesting injustice(s). Do
you agree or disagree? Do you see any present day experience(s) reflecting this ideology?
6--Choose a contemporary controversial issue that is found in the novel A Lesson before Dying,
and continues to be a social concern. Take a pro or con position and argue your opinion.
Remember to acknowledge opposing viewpoints.
Refer to your class syllabus for due dates.