Social Studies 10: Issues Paper
You are being provided with an opportunity to gather evidence and present a well-reasoned argument about a controversial issue. (Pretty wide open as to topic, it just needs to be framed in a school appropriate manner and tie back to Canada). Who doesn’t like to present a winning argument? This paper will actually provide you with the skills to be a more convincing and credible individual!
What is an Issues Paper?
The Issues Paper is really an argumentative essay.
An argumentative research paper is a combination of a traditional research paper and a persuasive essay. An argumentative paper makes a claim (thesis) about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy, a proposal, an evaluation, a cause and effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.
Some important things the paper will include:
5-8 page (1000-1500 words) double spaced argumentative research paper with a Title Page, Bibliography, Footnotes (or Endnotes) all in Chicago Documentation style.
Minimum of 5 sources. Some sources will provide you with great quotes to support your argument!
Present at least three pieces of evidence but no more than five to support your claims.
Paper Structure: Title, introduction, a clear argumentative thesis statement, body paragraphs with support (refute) and a conclusion.
Please do not plagiarize. Plagiarism is academic theft and will result in an F and could cause you not to pass Socials 10!
This project will be completed in stages and I will support you along the way. And give you clear completion goals and timelines.
Stage 1: Selecting a Topic and creating two mind maps for two topics
While a strong interest in the topic is important, it is not enough to just be interested. You have to consider what position you can backup with reasoning and evidence. It’s one thing to have a strong belief, but when shaping an argument you will have to explain why your belief is reasonable and logical. As you explore potential topics, make a mental list of points you could use as evidence for or against the issue.
You must hand in:
-selected two topics and create a rough web of your ideas of major points on either side of the issue. Identify what the issue is and briefly outline each side. This will include the major stake holders involved. A stakeholder is a person, group or organization that has an interest or concern in/with the issue. You should have the major stakeholders identified on each side of the issue.
