College Composition II
Fall 2014
Paper 3: Proposal Argument
Draft Due: Thursday, Dec. 4th
Overview
For the third argumentative essay this semester, you will propose a solution to a problem linked
to an issue you have been researching. Like Paper 2, this third paper represents a logical “next
step” in a research project about media representations; depending on the effects that the media
does/does not have, there is probably something we should/should not do about it. While you
will demonstrate your ability to work within the argumentative genre of the proposal, you may
draw upon other types of arguments (e.g., causal, definition, etc.) as needed.
Goals





To understand and apply the conventions of a proposal argument (Core Value 2).
To select the most appropriate and best quality sources for your purpose (Core Value 4).
To demonstrate an awareness of audience by providing necessary background
information, anticipating objections, and recognizing potential differences you hold in
beliefs and values (Core Value 3).
To treat other views respectfully (Core Value 5).
To make careful use of emotional appeals; you want to get your audience to care about a
problem, but ultimately to persuade them to accept your solution through rational appeals
(Core Value 5).
Audience as Context: While your proposal will take the form of a researched essay, you should
identify an audience that you would like to persuade with your argument. Possible audiences
include the general public, a specific community affected by the problem, those in power that
can enact the proposed change, or stakeholders that have a different set of beliefs or values than
you. As a writer, you will need to make careful choices about how to best appeal to your
audience and tailor your reasons, evidence, etc. to them. Sections 1 and 3 of your proposal will
need to be carefully crafted.
Structure: Proposals are usually made in three phases: 1) show that a problem exists, 2) explain
your proposed solution, and 3) offer a justification for this solution (that it is fair and feasible). If
other proposed solutions to the problem already exist, you should address these in your paper and
refute them (while making concessions) in favor of your own. You do not need to reinvent the
wheel; it is fine to align yourself with a proposal made by others and just do the work of
persuading your own audience. (Note: These sections do not represent single paragraphs.)
Existing Solutions: Since most of us have been studying problems that stem from media
representations, you might consider arguing how viable one of the existing solutions seems to be:
 Protesting/demanding change from the media (ex. Miss Representation Project)
College Composition II


Fall 2014
Fostering media literacy/education in consumers (there are lots of studies measuring
efficacy)
Producing counter-media (media that aims to “correct” what it sees as false
representations in other media; see this satirical ad, for example,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_vVUIYOmJM)
Details
1) Part of showing that a problem exists entails getting your reader to care enough to accept
your proposed solution. To get the reader to care, you will need to work on their hearts
as well as their minds by showing how the problem affects people (and, potentially, the
reader specifically) and has important stakes.
2) You will need to show how your solution solves the problem (wholly or partially).
3) You will need to offer reasons for adopting your proposal. What values can you appeal
to? Of the person or organization that needs to be convinced, how can you show that
their interests are served? Always remember your audience. You don’t have to pretend
that your solution is perfect or has neither costs nor any negative consequences; you
should address these and convince your reader that despite them, your solution is about
doing the right thing.
Guidelines






Minimum of three academically credible sources; you likely will need to locate some
new sources based on your purpose in this paper.
900-1200 words.
Original title for paper.
12 pt. Times New Roman, 1” margins, double-spacing.
Last name and page number in upper-right corner; appropriate heading in upper-left
corner of first page.
MLA-style manuscript, in-text citations, and bibliography. For formatting guidance, see
Writing Arguments or Purdue OWL (link is in Resources section of Blackboard).