English 1A Essay #4: Hanging with the In Crowd, Analytical/Argumentative Essay
4+ pages, 1000 word minimum, 1500 word max, 18% of Final Grade
Topic Background: We have read numerous articles about the various ways America is divided or at least perceives its divisions, often even self-inflicted. And
given the contemporary nature of this paper, it shows the importance of entering a conversation and the real world implications your writing can have on
those around you.
Paper Prompt to Address in your Thesis: What happens when we only hang out with or discuss issues with those who agree with us, those who are likeminded? What are the consequences of interacting primarily with those who share our same views?
Purpose: To develop an argument of your own without responding to a specific author. To hone thesis writing skills. To develop information literacy skills–
search for and incorporate academic research into your paper. Prepare you for the academic research of the final paper.
Requirements
4 pages, 1000 word minimum (1500 word max )
Fine and use at least 2 Academic, peer-reviewed articles to support your argument (Complete BEFORE beginning writing)
MLA Format: 1” margins, double-spaced, 12pt. Font, Times New Roman, running header, header + word count.
MLA formatted Works Cited page
Articulate thesis stating your response to the prompt
Addresses naysayer
Highlight your thesis statement
Use 2 Readings from the following as SUPPORT for YOUR argument
(this can be a naysayer) in the form of summaries, paraphrases, & direct quotes:
“Minority Student Clubs” “Inequality: Can Social Media Resolve Social Divisions?”
“Group Polarization”
“The Other Side is Not Dumb”
“Breaking Thru Filter Bubbles”
“The Dangers of Echo Chambers on Campus”
“Even our Language is Polarizing”