For this assignment, you will write a proposal argument and use rhetorical strategies to reach your intended audience. Write your essay (4-7 full pages) proposing a solution to a relevant and significant problem. Your argument will discuss what a specific audience should do to help solve the problem; explain why your proposed solution will work best. Be sure to apply the persuasive techniques and rhetorical knowledge covered this term. As you compose your essay, consider both the scope of the assignment and the major components of a proposal argument. In particular, refer to Ch. 12 in EAR and class lecture/materials for complete expectations. Basic Parameters Pick a topic and audience You will want to format your thesis in the general A should do B because of C format. Your initial thesis should be tentative (this means it is fine to change it along the way!). Be open to the research process and select the solution that can truly yield the best results. Avoid confirmation bias. When selecting a topic, consider the scope of this paper: 4-7 pages in MLA format. Aim for topics with a local or narrow focus, and dont hesitate to qualify claims as your writing progresses. Additionally, review the content needs below to be sure you can meet all requirements. As you advance your proposal, finalize the audience you will persuade. Remember, the audience and action must match. Will you write your argument to a specific person or group of people? Can your target audience perform the action or produce change? (Ex. a legislator, president of the university, OSU students, Oregonians, parents, teachers, etc.). You must also write this proposal with an aim to persuade the skeptical readers in the audience. Content Requirements Your argument should begin with a memorable description of / evidence for the problem. Expand on the exact nature of the problem: what it is, how it arose and evolved, why its pressing, who it affects, etc. It would be helpful to apply causal reasoning. You also want to cultivate a writing style appropriate for this audience / task. The rest of your essay should be devoted to explaining, supporting, and defending why your proposed solution is best. Provide a clear thesis regarding the solution (A should do B because C). Support your claim with developed reasoning and a critical mass of evidence Include at least 4 credible sources (introduce these sources in your text). At least one source must be opposition. Provide sufficient evidence that shows your solution will indeed solve the problem. Describe how the solution would be carried out in practical terms. Provide evidence it will be feasible. Explain why your solution is better than other possible solutions, and overcome the objections youre likely to come across. Recommended: use motivational strategies covered in class. Throughout this section, mention any additional benefits and apply rhetorical appeals where appropriate. Your conclusion should call the audience to action. That usually doesnt mean making a direct statement, such as, Now, get out there and vote! It means using persuasive techniques that will motivate readers to act. There are a number of effective strategies for this, but here are three you might find useful: You can return to the story that opens your essay. How would the subject of the story feel if your proposed changes were implemented? How would his or her life be changed? You can end with a description of how the problem might become more severe if your solution is not implemented. Be careful, however, to avoid fallacies such as scare tactics and slippery slope claims. You can describe the first step toward implementing your proposal. For example, if youre proposing that OSU students give blood once a year, you might want to mention when and where the next opportunity will take place.
