Comparison/Contrast Essay
Summary
Where we are now:
We have discussed the main components of an Academic essay and have begun the use of MLA documentation and style. We have begun to use research methods and techniques. Now we will use analysis and detail to begin developing opinions of another author’s work.
Purpose:
o To use the fundamental building blocks of an essay.
o To craft a well-defined thesis statement.
o To use MLA citation and style.
o To compare and/or contrast two written works
Implementation
Project
Find on Blackboard two articles. They are “Dumbing of America” by Susan Jacoby and “R U Really reading” by Motoko Rich. Compare the two articles in terms of content, opinion, subject matter, and style. You may discuss how they are similar and different within your paper.
Develop an opinion of the works to help drive your paper. For this essay it is not enough to just compare the words of the articles; compare their meanings as well. Which do you believe? Which is better? Etc.
Form a clear opinion and pre-write possible directions for your paper. I suggest brainstorming and prewriting possible outlines before making a firm decision on your topic. Remember this paper must be 750 words long and properly utilize at least 3 documented sources.
Process
Following the structure and conventions, we have discussed in this course write a minimum of 750 words on the topic. You must clearly give an opinion of the topic and give us a concise discussion of the topic. Assume the reader has not read either of the articles and your paper is their first exposure to the authors and articles.
Materials & Resources
a. Instructional Materials: Essay structure, MLA style, Research methods, and techniques
b. Resources: Two articles on Blackboard.
Assessment
This paper will be worth 100 points of your final 1000. It may be submitted electronically. Late papers will receive a penalty of 1 letter grade per day.
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MLA
898 words