Any topic (writer’s choice)

Essay #4: Rogerian Rhetoric
Due Nov 24 by 11:59pm Points 100 Submitting a file upload File Types doc, docx, and pdf Available until Dec 4 at 11:59pm
You will write a Rogerian Argument in which you mediate opposing arguments from multiple sources.

For this assignment, you must select at least two sources that express competing opinions on a specific problem. Your task is to mediate those two stances, finding a compromise between the two opinions that you can support. Since you will need to form a compromise, try to avoid topics where no middle ground can be found, or where one side is obviously right or wrong.

Your final paper will follow this organizational structure:

An introduction to the problem, with a compromise thesis
Summary of one position
Fair discussion of why that position is held
Summary of the opposing position
Fair discussion of why that position is held
Your new argument that is a compromise drawn from these two sides

Note that these can, and likely should, be combinedin other words, you dont need to write six separate paragraphs for your paper (although you can, if you really want to).

GUIDELINES:

Research requirements: your paper must include at least two secondary sourcesat least one for each side. You may consider finding more in order to establish your topic or to support your compromise, if you wish. You can use one of our assigned readings from units 1-3 for one of the sides, but I want you to find an opposing viewpoint on your own.
Word count: 800-1000 words (counting only the essay, not the works cited page).
Format paper according to MLA style.
Write formally. First-person is likely inappropriate.
Be sure to bring drafts with you on peer review days. If you are unable to participate in a peer review day, you will lose five points on your final paper grade each time.
Work must be submitted in a .doc Word document format to be accepted.

Rubric
Essay #4 Rubric
Essay #4 Rubric
Criteria    Ratings    Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIntroduction
20.0 to >18.0 pts
Outstanding
Introduction presents the situation without bias, and provides a compromise. Introduction uses evidence to establish the topics and themes of the paper, and intrigue the reader.
18.0 to >16.0 pts
Surpasses Expectations
Introduction clearly presents the stakes of the debate. Introduction establishes the significance of the topic and has a clear hook.
16.0 to >14.0 pts
Satisfactory
Introduction includes a debate. Introduction includes background and some attempt at engaging the reader.
14.0 to >12.0 pts
Unsatisfactory
Introduction establishes a debate but fails to compromise Introduction fails to engage the reader in the topic, or does not establish background.
12.0 to >0 pts
Unacceptable
No thesis is present, or the thesis does not address the prompt. Introduction fails to establish the debate being discussed.
20.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeSummary
20.0 to >18.0 pts
Outstanding
Body paragraphs are clearly linked to each-other and the thesis. Essay provides clear summation based in evidence.
18.0 to >16.0 pts
Surpasses Expectations
Topic sentences form a cohesive argument. Essay uses evidence to explain each position without bias.
16.0 to >14.0 pts
Satisfactory
Contains body paragraphs in PIE format. Essay clearly explains both sides of an issue.
14.0 to >12.0 pts
Unsatisfactory
Paragraphs may lack PIE format. Essay may prioritize one side of the issue, or show bias in some way.
12.0 to >0 pts
Unacceptable
Paragraphs are unstructured. Essay fails to clearly explain the two viewpoints.
20.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeDiscussion
30.0 to >27.0 pts
Outstanding
Essay acknowledges the reasons held by proponents of each side in a fair and unbiased manner.
27.0 to >24.0 pts
Surpasses Expectations
Essay provides reasons for each side to be valid.
24.0 to >21.0 pts
Satisfactory
Essay gives credit to both sides of the debate.
21.0 to >18.0 pts
Unsatisfactory
Essay may present the reasoning in a dishonest or biased manner.
18.0 to >0 pts
No Marks
Essay fails to clearly establish the reasoning behind one (or both) of the positions.
30.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeConclusion
20.0 to >18.0 pts
Outstanding
Conclusion provides clear reasoning to support the thesis as a solution acceptable to both positions.
18.0 to >16.0 pts
Surpasses Expectations
Conclusion establishes common ground to support the thesis.
16.0 to >14.0 pts
Satisfactory
Conclusion connects the thesis to both positions.
14.0 to >12.0 pts
Unsatisfactory
Conclusion attempts to justify the thesis, but may fail to justify it as acceptable for both sides.
12.0 to >0 pts
No Marks
Conclusion fails to establish a justification for the thesis.
20.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeGrammar, Format, & Mechanics
10.0 to >9.0 pts
Outstanding
Few or only minor grammar errors. Citations and signal phrases are used throughout to give credit to sources.
9.0 to >8.0 pts
Surpasses Expectations
Reasonable grammar errors that do not detract from reading. Sources are cited with only minor errors.
8.0 to >7.0 pts
Satisfactory
Grammatical errors occasionally distract or interfere with the authors message. Errors in formatting and use of sources.
7.0 to >6.0 pts
Unsatisfactory
Severe grammatical errors that consistently affect readability. Paper may not meet formatting guidelines from prompt. Sources are rarely cited.
6.0 to >0 pts
No Marks
Consistent errors in grammar and formatting. Paper does not meet formatting guidelines from prompt. No sources are cited.
10.0 pts
Total Points: 100.0