updated unit 2 assignment sheet

1. Unit 2 Essay
“Opposite of Me:” Understanding the Arguments
This essay is designed to help you explore the arguments surrounding your topic, and better your own
understanding of your opinion through exploration of the different perspectives involved. This assignment helps
you assess these different perspectives. The twist with this essay is that you will argue your topic from a
perspective you disagree with. Researching at least three sources, and no more than five, you will present a
thesis driven argument in support of the opposite of your actual opinion.
This project will be spaced into four drafts. The fourth draft is due on Monday, Oct. 7th
, by 11:59pm,
along with each previous draft. The final draft should be 3 to 5 pages and in MLA-8 format.
Step One: Zero Draft
Brainstorm your opinion. Pull on the work you did from your Unit 1 essay. What, in your opinion, are the sides
of the argument? There are seldom only two sides, be sure to be thorough. This piece can be an outline, a
mindmap, etc.
Step Two: Working Draft
Explore the opinions of which you disagree- using stasis theory helps here. Decide which stance you’ll be
arguing. Find three to five sources that support this opposite opinion. (You can use the sources you found for
the Unit 1 essay.) Summarize your sources.
Step Three: Rough Draft
Now that you have some research and a direction for argumentation, write your essay and develop your thesis.
This is a persuasive essay. What things from your research support your claim?
Step Four: Final Draft
After peer-review, answer the questions raised. Proofread and edit. Turn in all four drafts, portfolio style.
In assessment I will look for:
• Four different drafts
• Thorough, thoughtful brainstorming
• 3 to 5 sources- thorough, thoughtful research with a works cited page
• A thesis with an argumentative, specific claim, supported by research
• Copy of peer-review letter
• Adherence to appropriate conventions of English (Proofreading) and MLA-8 style and formatting