Objective
Students write a brief persuasive essay that utilizes data drawn from the articles read so far in
the course. Integrating facts, both paraphrased and quoted, students support a thesis that
posits an argument about the debate over whether the undergraduate degree is worth the
cost. The relevant course outcomes, which can be found listed in the syllabus, are: 3, 4, 5, 7, 8.
Dominant cognitive processes are analysis and synthesis.
The Task
Write an essay that addresses the subject of the return on investment for completing the
undergraduate degree; that is, a bachelor’s degree, not an advanced degree or professional
degree like a law degree. You must integrate information from the articles that we have read
on the topic. Feel free to use your first essay as a foundation for this assignment. Write this
essay in the third person (no I, no you). You may not utilize research outside of the two articles.
If you do, your essay shall receive a grade of D at 65%. Your audience is a general reader.
Organization
Introduction
Provide your general reader with some context. Some data may help define the situation.
Cite your sources. The introduction should occupy one to two paragraphs.
Thesis
In a well-developed paragraph, define your perspective and foreground your discussion points.
You can agree, disagree, or take a middle or qualified position. Avoid three, easy, superficial
discussion points. A couple well-considered, thoroughly developed arguments will be more
effective.
Discussion
Be sure that the discussion aligns with the content of the thesis. Make your case by integrating
paraphrased content and well-chosen quotations. Multiple paragraphs are needed. Citation and
formatting must adhere to MLA format.
Conclusion
Restate your primary arguments in a single paragraph. The conclusion should reiterate the
tenor of the thesis without using the same phrasing.
Works Cited
Cite your sources using MLA format, including in-text citations. Use of any other format shall
result in a grade of D at 65%.
Guard against:
• Taking on too many topics
• Losing your voice among the quotations—Remember, this is your argument.