Purpose: to persuade audience to accept a claim about a debatable issue

Audience: specific/narrow group who can make change regarding this issue, e.g. state or local government
Voice: Third-person (no “you” voice; limited “I” voice for personal stories/examples)
Length: 1,800+ words (not including References page)
Citations: APA parenthetical/in-text citations throughout and APA References page com Score: 5-20% range.
Sources: 8 or more research sources used and cited within the essay (and on the References page)
3+ peer-reviewed scholarly articles from the library databases
2+ magazine/newspaper/government document/book/eBook sources (or peer-reviewed articles)
2+ other credible sources, such as more general websites (may include any of the more credible source types above)
1+ personal interview

A Successful Argument Essay*

Essay is persuasive, utilized rhetorical devices, demonstrating largely effective logical and persuasive skill.

Essay is directed at a specific/narrow audience.
Successful focus on topic and stance; thesis is a viable, well-worded opinion (claim + reasons format) leading to focused argument.
Thesis and body strongly aligned throughout: flows in an organized manner that matches the thesis “map.”
Utilizes topic sentences, transitions, etc. well and paragraph content is focused, purposeful, and smooth.
Support is extensive, varied, and sophisticated throughout the paper:
Informs audience about the background/context of the issue.
Offers strong support for thesis by developing the reasons listed in the thesis.
Cites and incorporates evidence from multiples sources for each reason.
Employs research from at least 8 credible sources, meeting requirement. Sources are current (published within last five years).
Synthesizes research with writer’s own ideas.