Major Essay #3
: Final draft due May 7 No late work accepted!Dividing Lines
Robert Atwan states, in his introduction to the "Dividing Lines" chapter, that "knowing who we are usually means knowing also who we are not. As individuals or in groups, we habitually define ourselves by our differences from others, drawing a line between ‘us’ and ‘them.’ What are these powerful lines? Are they wholly imaginary, or do they have a concrete existence? To what extent do these lines shape personal identity and social behavior? Does identifying serious divisions play a major role in the maintenance of a just society?" To help you develop an argument essay consider these aforementioned questions. Do not simply answer these questions, but rather use them to get ideas for the kind of information you should include in your essay.
Writing Task: Argue for or against dividing lines in one of the following categories:
Purpose: To write an argument essay where you do the following:
Sources: . Use at least three (3) outside sources, which may include any of the readings from Convergences. Outside sources are: journal and periodical articles, reputable websites—must be pre-approved with instructor—and books.
Format: This essay should be 4 to 6 pages, typed, double-spaced, 12-point font in Times New Roman, with 1" margins all around (see Keys 230-2). Include in-text citations and a works cited page in MLA format (see Keys 124-158).
Failure to follow these requirements will result in grade percentage deductions from the final score of the essay.
Due Dates:
Rough draft for Peer Review due: April 28 at 7AM. Post on course bulletin board anonymously--only put title of paper in title bar--use your student ID instead of your name. Include 4 specific questions at the end of your essay posting that you want answered by your readers to assist you in revising Do NOT ask questions that elicit only yes/no answers. Ask peer reviewers to post thoughtful, insightful, & constructively critical responses to your inquiries. You want substantial comprehensively written critiques. (60 points) (You must participate in peer review.)
LRC visit w/ proof: ongoing (2 points extra credit)
Final draft due: May 7 (100 points)
Voluntary Portfolio Revision Draft: May 17 (For grade change opportunity, must follow Portfolio Revision for Major Essays format guidelines, otherwise don’t bother.)