Argument Evaluation Paper

Phil 3 – Argument Evaluation Paper

Choose one of these three articles to evaluate: Is it a good argument?

1. Why Gun Control Doesn’t Work
2. Texas Heartbeat Law Is Now in Effect
3. Vaccine Mandates Decimating Police

Your paper should have:
1. On the top page a standardization of the article’s argument.
2. An introductory paragraph presenting the topic and telling the reader what follows.
3. In the body of the paper, a critical evaluation of the argument’s premises and conclusion.
 See Chapter 8 for evaluation guidelines. (PP and summary doc on Canvas).
 Cite at least 5 authoritative sources to support your evaluation (more sources
strengthen your evaluation).
o Use MLA-style in-text citation when you quote, summarize, or paraphrase from another
source or use material that is not your own.
o Use the author’s last name in MLA in-text citations.
 EX: “Sleeping at night is widespread.” (Smith)
o For every in-text citation in your paper, there must be a corresponding source on your
“Works Cited” page.
 EX: Smith, Walter. Classroom Behavior. Dell Publishing. New York. 2013
4. A concluding paragraph summarizing the main points of your evaluation and your opinion on
the article and the topic.
5. A ‘Works Cited’ page
Format
 750 Words [not less than three pages, double spaced].

o Standard 10 or 12 pt font
o Double spaced
o Text left justified
o 1” margins
o Title the paper
o Indent paragraphs one tab stop
o Use MLA format for citations
Style / Expression
 Write in the active voice with confidence and enthusiasm.
 Evaluate premises with thought and appropriate research.
 Demonstrate your understanding of critical thinking terms and tools.
 No slang, colloquialisms, or abbreviations.
 Use correct spelling, punctuation, grammar and sentence structure.
 Omit needless words.
 Please carefully edit and proofread your paper.

o Your paper must meet college standards for English composition.
o N.B. Read your paper aloud to make sure it is clear and coherent.

Grading
 Did you follow the rubric?
 Does your paper demonstrate that you have examined critically the article?
 Is the writing concise and focused?
90 – 100 = Very well written: insightful, thorough and substantive.
80 – 90 = Well written, with good evaluation of the argument.
70 – 80 = Errors in writing quality and content.
60 – 70 = Many omissions and/or errors.
> 60 = Paper fails to satisfy the assignment.

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