Task:
For this assignment, your task is to argue a position on one of the questions listed below. The focus of the assignment is creating a strong argumentative essay, including a clear thesis, body paragraphs that support the thesis, addressing a counterargument, and conclusion that extends the argument by stressing the importance of understanding the position or making a prediction about the future.
150 points/ 15% of your final grade
Assignment Specifics:
Essay Type
Argumentative essay based upon one of the 10 posted questions
Length
750 words/ points will be deducted for essays less than 700 words
Point of View
1st or 3rd person. Do not use 2nd person. First vs. Third Person | Ashford Writing Center
Audience
Academic/ interested in the argument
Sources
No sources are required for the assignment, but if sources are used, they must be documented in-text and with a Works Cited page.
Recommended Structure

An introduction that ends in a strong thesis that takes a position
Three body paragraphs in support of your position
One body paragraph that addresses a counter perspective
A conclusion that extends the conversation by making a prediction or suggesting action.

Formatting
MLA- 12pt Times New Roman, 1-inch margins

It must take a position regarding one of the 10 posted questions

The essay should not use any sources. You will provide your thinking and examples from your thoughts and experiences as support
The essay should include

An introduction that ends in a strong thesis that takes a position
Three body paragraphs in support of your position
One body paragraph that addresses a counter perspective
A conclusion that extends the conversation by making a prediction or suggesting action.
No Works Cited page is needed because you are not using sources
Length- 700 to 900 words.

Position Essay Topics

Which is more important: freedom or security?
Are online or virtual classes harder or easier than traditional in-person classes?
Are SAT or ACT tests necessary to determine whether a student is ready for college?
Should college athletes be paid?
Should high school students be required to study a foreign language?
Should the Washington Redskins have changed their name?
Should voting be mandatory in the United States, as it is in some other countries?
Is it ethical to conduct medical experiments on animals?
Should the government require masks and shutdowns to attempt to stop COVID or are they interfering with peoples rights?
Is it fair that students under the age of 18 are paid less for working the same job as individuals over the age of 18?
For the essay, you will take a position and answer one of these questions. For example, if the question was
Should college be free during the pandemic as long as students maintain a 2.5 GPA?