In mini-paper #1, you will present your arguments supporting your position on the topic you have selected as the subject for your formal argumentative essay.

Step One: PRE-WRITING

A. Brainstorm at least ten potential topics about which you could write your paper.
B. Select one or two topics from this list and do an exploratory freewrite to probe your interests in the topic, your feelings on the topic, and the amount of information you know on the topic.
C. Choose the one topic which will be the subject of your formal argumentative essay.

Step Two (TO TURN IN):

In a mini-paper of approximately two pages double spaced, present your topic, position, and the arguments supporting the position you have taken on your topic. Your first mini-paper should include the following:

A. BACKGROUND: Information on the topic contextualizing the issue for the readers or explaining the controversy surrounding the topic.
B. POSITION: Your position on the topic. Remember, this need not be your heartfelt belief on the topic but just the position you will argue in your composition.
C. ARGUMENTS: Three fully supported arguments that present your reasons for believing your position. Given the topic you have chosen, you may need to do research or reading to substantiate your arguments.

Mini-paper #1 will serve as an invaluable resource writing your formal argumentative essay. It is ungraded; however, the three mini-papers combined account for 5% of the 25% weight of paper #4. I will comment on them to encourage you to develop your ideas as critically and fully as possible.

Click here for Questions to help you Analyze Paper Assignments

Click here for EN 103 Paper Assignment #4