Argumentative Assignments

Essentials of Researching and Writing an Argumentative Essay

1. Logic - Visit The Owl at Purdue Website to read about the role of logic in argumentative writing. 
2. Vocabulary -syllogism , fallacy (Definition#2)
3. Also helpful on the OWL site - Structure and guidelines for writing an argumentative paper
4. Identify media bias in sources! Checkout this article featured on the Accuracy in Media website, titled Media Bias in Strategic Word Choice. 

Locating Relevant and Credible Sources:

DISCUS  - Choose either "Gale in Context: Opposing Viewpoints" or "Points of View Reference Center" form the "A-Z List" of Resources tab.  These databases are tailored specifically to argumentative assignments.  You will be able to choose/browse from a list of topics or enter your own search terms.

Works Cited Tips - Why not keep a working bibliography of your sources? By having all of your source information formatted you are able to expedite matters when it comes to providing in-text citations and finally creating the works cited in your paper. 

Opposing Viewpoints and Credo Reference (both in DISCUS) work very well with NoodleTools. In Opposing Viewpoints you can click on the citation tools, click on NoodleTools to automatically add the citation to a project (you must be logged in). 

The OWL at Purdue website is a great guide for both APA and MLA formatting - lots of useful information here!

The MLA Handbook, 8th edition, is available in the media center.