Skip to Main Content

Senior Project: The Argumentative Paper

 

A.C.T.


Argumentative Paper: CCSS.W.1: "Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence...Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.”

An Argumentative paper must have a thesis that is:

  • Arguable
  • Concise (clear)
  • Tenable (supportable/sustainable) – worthy of academic inquiry 

An Argumentative paper must also have a counterclaim. Students must address and refute the claim.

Rubric Language:

  • 4 Mastery:  Introduces a sophisticated claim that is arguable, concise, and tenable while effectively acknowledging the counterclaim 
  • 3 Advanced: Introduces a precise claim that is arguable, concise, and tenable while acknowledging the counterclaim
  • 2 Proficient:  ​Introduces a claim that is somewhat arguable, concise, or tenable, OR may be too general  and/or neglect the counterclaim
  • 1 Emerging: Introduces a claim that is too general, lacks focus, and/or is unclear or is simply not arguable
  • 0 Limited: Does not introduce a recognizable or understandable thesis/claim.