Mr.+Winkelman--CP+Writing

=**Exploring the Issues**=

What makes something an issue? It is an issue when there is more than one reasonable position a person can take on the topic. To write an effective argument, you need to thoroughly explore the issue first to make a logical proposition. To explore the issue, consider all the possible "arguments," or positions one can take, then question and defend each of those argument's premises, revising and rethinking the arguments as you go.

//You will be documenting your research on the issue wikipages linked below. As you research:// 1. State the topic: identify the question/issue you are investigating and why. Provide any necessary background information. 2. Identify the arguments and premises on all sides of the issue (at least two, often more). 3. For each argument, question and defend its premises by: a. Finding multiple sources that support the premise (minimum two, include bibliographic information) b. Summarize/paraphrase key ideas to use as evidence, including key quotes. c. Provide commentary on each paraphrase/source; what does it mean? Why is it valid/logical/impor

**Example Outline for Research**
1. Question/Issue/Background 2. Side A: (a) Source 1: (b) Summary/Quote: (c) Commentary:

(b) Summary/Quote: (c) Commentary: (a) Source 2: (b) Summary/Quote: (c) Commentary: (b) Summary/Quote: (c) Commentary: 2. Side B: (a) Source 3: (b) Summary/Quote: (etc.)
 * //Period 6 Issues// ||  ||
 * Premarital Sex || Drinking Age ||
 * Reliance on Telecommunications || Gas Prices ||
 * Gay Marriage || Political Party Affiliation ||
 * Apathy || Paying for College ||