The final essay assignment (or take home exam), scheduled during the exam period, requires you to write a 2000-2500 word, double-spaced, argumentative essay in response to a choice of multiple questions. It will draw on both substantive knowledge and students’ demonstrated ability to understand and analyze course concepts and case law. Students are expected to utilize key course frameworks and to demonstrate familiarity with class readings and materials. You must use a recognized writing style/means of citation of your choosing (such as MLA, APA, etc.). I have no preference or requirement for which you use, just that you be consistent with its use. Your submission must be in either Word or pdf format.
Your essay should be organized as follows: Title PageThe cover page will include reference to the question number you have selected to address out of the choices provided; as well as the title of your essay and your student information.
Introduction (approx. 200-300 words)The introduction should briefly introduce the topic and identify the question you have chosen to address. One well-written paragraph should establish how you will address the topic and question and generally set a professional tone while capturing the reader’s interest. Include a clear argumentative thesis statement as a single sentence typically positioned at the end of the paragraph, as well as a statement setting out at least a couple arguments you intend to make in support of your position/thesis. If space allows you might provide a concise roadmap of the paper; however, excessively summarizing the paper’s contents reduces word count available for scholarly information elsewhere in the essay.
Body of Essay (1600 -1900 words)The section should consist of 3-4 paragraphs. Within those paragraphs students must identify, provide sufficient background information for, and succinctly summarize the issue(s) that is connected to the assigned research question. However, these paragraphs must not simply be descriptive in nature. Rather, you are also expected to demonstrate your analysis and original thinking, arguing the position you have taken on the matter. To do that, you must lay out the logic and reasoning you are relying on, and utilize your own analytical skills, in conveying your informed judgment after considering all sides of the issue. What your argument or position is does not matter, so long as you have demonstrated your reasoning and analysis, and provided sufficient supporting evidence as to why you have come to the conclusion you have.
Conclusion (approx. 200-300 words)The conclusion is a short and precise identification of what has been learned in relation to the assigned research question. Synthesize key information from each section to address the essay question. Conclude by demonstrating how your stated argumentative thesis has been proven via a concise breakdown of the supporting evidence you have expanded upon previously.Works Cited (5+ sources)The works cited is a properly formatted alphabetical list of the publication details of any scholarly sources referred to in the essay. These would include books, journal articles, cases, legislation, news sources and more. Standard presentation information is required. You do not need to cite the course notes.