TOPIC OVERVIEWFor this assignment, you will be composing an extended definition. You can choose a strong word/concep

TOPIC OVERVIEW

For this assignment, you will be composing an extended definition. You can choose a strong word/concept from Toni Morrison’s speech (hello “chaos” and “censorship”), a word/concept from a U.S. Seminal text such as the U.S. Declaration of Independence to define an abstract word or phrase (ex- “Liberty”), or any other word/concept that has strong connotative meaning. Remember, we’ve discussed the importance and power of words, so choose a word that has strong meaning but is not too narrow, too broad, or circular in nature. Within these parameters, the topic that you choose should be of interest to you and have enough complexity to sustain an essay. The purpose of this assignment is to compose an extended argument of 750 words.

Option 1: Extended Definition Argument

• For the extended definition argument, you will use a minimum of three (3) resources.
• Your extended definition argument should follow the basic structure we’ve reviewed:
  • Introduction: Establishes a context for the argument by explaining the need for defining the term; presents the essay’s thesis
  • Evidence (first point in support of thesis): Provides a short definition of the term as well as an extended definition
  • Evidence (second point in support of thesis): Shows how the term does or does not fit the definition
  • Refutation of opposing arguments:Addresses questions about or objections to the definition; considers and rejects other possible meanings (if any)
  • Conclusion: Reinforces the main point of the argument; includes a strong concluding
• Identify an instance in a document or broadcast in which the meaning the author/speaker assigns to the word is debatable;
• You are not looking for an instance in which someone uses a term incorrectly. Rather, you are looking for an instance in which a person applies a word to an object or situation, and you disagree with the person’s evaluation of that object or situation;
• When you have your example, then answer the following question: why is it important to dispute the meaning of that word? Your answer to that question will help in determining your thesis/claim.

Examples:

• An argumentative essay calling for a re-examination of the birth control requirements in the Affordable Health Care Act with a focus on explaining what birth control is, what the options are, and how they work.
• The call for an end to a two-party system in the U.S. with a focus on defining what a two-party system is and what the laws are related to it.
• Voter fraud- what is it and what does it mean and how is it used?
• Compare love and hate. Which is a stronger emotion?
• A universal definition of love: does it exist?
• What is happiness?
• How do we define the 21^st Century family?
• Is rap poetry?
• Should nontraditional education experiences, such as semesters abroad and internships, count for college credit towards a degree?
• Is any recent president today in class with the likes of Washington, Lincoln, or Roosevelt?
• What is cruel and unusual punishment?
• What is freedom?
• What is beauty?
• What makes someone a hero?
• What is an appropriate salary?
• What is success?
• Street smart versus book smart
• Benefits of organic foods with an emphasis on what organic really means
• A “natural birth” versus medical intervention
• Are low-carb diets dangerous? Define what constitutes “low-carb” and define what you mean by “dangerous.” Cite studies showing harmful effects, how substances affect the body, etc.
• The concept of “bossy” versus a “leader”: define “bossy” and provide examples of his bossy attitude (poor listening skills, shouting at people, making decisions without asking committee—these are what define “bossy” in your argument.
• What does “liberty” mean?
• What does “inalienable rights” really mean?
• Still need more help? Take a look at this list of ideas: https://www.thoughtco.com/writing-topics-extended-definition-1690536

ASSIGNMENT CRITERIA

• The writer has a clearly defined purpose and argument demonstrated with a strong thesis statement.
• The writer illustrates the significance and importance of his or her topic.
• The writer follows the basic structure for a definition.
• The writer has a clear conclusion that acts as a summation (not a summary!) of the essay.
• The writer engages responsibly and appropriately with the sources he or she uses as specific evidence and examples.
• The writer's evidence supports his or her argument directly.
• The writer cites three different sources.
• The writer’s essay meets standards of clarity, accuracy, logic, significance, fairness, precision, and relevance.
• The writer uses appropriate spelling, grammar, and mechanics.
• The writer uses MLA style, including the Works Cited page and overall document design.
• The paper is approximately 750 words.