In core argument summary, you will include:
1) Introduction that engages the audience and introduces the problem at the heart of your argument
(1 paragraph)
a) “Hook” that engages the audience’s attention
b) Explanation of the problem at the center of your argument
c) Necessary background
2) Position statement (1-2 paragraphs)
a) Your thesis
b) Forecasting passage
3) Summary of opposing views (1-2 paragraphs)
a) Summary of key views differing from writer’s
b) Should be fair and focused on the strongest opposition to your argument
c) Use a conciliatory approach
4) Response to opposing views (2-3 paragraphs)
a) Refutes or concedes to opposing views
b) Shows weakness in opposing views
c) May conced to some strengths
5) Conclusion (1 paragraph)
a) Brings essay to closure
b) Often sums up argument
c) Leaves strong last impression
d) Often calls for action or relates topic to a larger context of issues.
Source Requirements
You will need to incorporate sources into your writing smoothly, using quotations and paraphrasing. Take
care to properly cite all sources according to MLA format.
Each paragraph of your summary should include cited sources embedded in your explanation of your
argument.
• Papers must meet the minimum paragraph and section requirements of the assignment (papers failing to
meet the minimum requirements will be given a failing grade).
• Papers must include FIVE sources deemed scholarly and acceptable. Do not use websites like
Wikipedia, biased news sites, or blogs—these are not acceptable sources (papers failing to incorporate
five sources will be given a failing grade)
• You must demonstrate an ability to cite sources with both of these:
o Attributive tags: Example – According to Smith, “students need to think critically” (37).
o Parenthetical citation: It has been said that “students need to think critically” (Smith 37).
Last Completed Projects
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