Proposal (Classical) Argument Essay
ENGL 101
Essay 1 Instructions and Checklist
Proposal (Classical) Argument
Assignment
In Module/Week 3, you will write a 1,000–1,200-word proposal argument essay from the thesis/outline that you submitted in Module/Week 2. The word count does not include intext citations, footnotes, or bibliographical page.
Proposal Argument Prompt:
Write a proposal argument in which you address the question, “What needs to be done to reform public education in the United States?”
Helpful Hints
- Chapter 13 in last week’s textbook readings includes sample student outlines and student essays for a proposal (Classical) essay written in each of the documentation styles (APA, MLA, and Turabian).
- Review the Proofreading Checklist (below) to understand the content that you must include in your essay assignment.
- Review the Essay 1 Grading Rubric in the course before submitting your thesis/outline assignment.
Proofreading Checklist
Use the Essay 1 Grading Rubric and the proofreading checklist to draft and revise your essay. Read through your paper and check the appropriate boxes on the chart below. If any area of your paper needs revision, make sure you correct it before submitting your essay.
| Reading & Study Application | Successful | Needs Revision |
| 1. Introduction: Establishes the context of the proposal and presents the essay’s thesis | ||
| 2. Thesis statement: Clearly states your debatable proposal argument that includes a feasible solution for the problem | ||
| 3. Explanation of the problem: Identifies the problem and explains why it needs to be solved | ||
| 4. Explanation of the solution: Proposes a solution and explains how it will solve the problem | ||
| 5. Evidence in support of the solution: Presents support for the proposed solution; integrates a total of at least 4 quotes, summaries, and/or paraphrases from at least 3 credible sources | ||
| 6. Benefits of the solution: Explains the positive results of the proposed course of action | ||
| 7. Refutation of opposing arguments: Addresses objections to the proposal | ||
| 8. Conclusion: Reinforces the main point of the proposal; includes a strong concluding statement | ||
| 9. Contains pathos (emotional) appeals, ethos (values/belief) appeals, and/or logos (factual) appeals as appropriate | ||
| 10. Title reflects issue and proposal information | ||
| 11. Uses only third person pronouns (all first and second person pronouns have been removed) | ||
| 12. If using current APA format, contains properly formatted, title, and References page.
If using MLA format, contains a properly formatted Works Cited page If using Turabian format, contains a properly formatted title page and Bibliography page |
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| 13. Uses signal phrases and appropriate transitions | ||
| 14. Double spaced; Font is 12-point Times New Roman | ||
| 15. References/Works Cited/ Bibliography page includes all sources cited within the body of the essay | ||
| 16. Checked spelling, grammar/mechanics |
Submitting the Assignment
When you are satisfied with the quality of your essay, submit in the course via the SafeAssign link for grading. Do not forget to write your degree program and whether you are using current MLA, APA, or Turabian on the title page and in the “Submission Title” field when submitting your paper.
IMPORTANT: Fully cite all quotations, summaries, and paraphrases used within your essay, or those excerpts will be regarded as plagiarism and will result in a “0” on your essay and possible course failure.
Submit this assignment by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Monday of Module/Week 3.