SSC120 - American Government: Writing an Effective Essay

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1. Make an intentional decision to set aside your personal opinion while you read and research different topics. 
2. Find some academic (scholarly) sources about the topic you choose.  If you need help finding resources, contact a library staff member. 
3. Once you have read the material, gather your thoughts and see where you land on the issue.  In writing, it's not so much how you feel as much as what you can justify with reason and data.
4. Write an opening paragraph.  Start with explaining the topic and why it is relevant to our study of American Government.
5. Present a summary of both sides.  This is a neutral presentation citing sources where relevant. 
6. Pick the side you favor for this essay. It can be one you personally prefer, or the opposite. 
7. Why do you favor this side? Present at least four arguments/reasons using data and logic that justify your chosen position.
8. If you met someone who did not favor your view, what is one argument you would make that you think would best represent your case?
9. Moving forward, where do you think the American people will be on this issue?