Argument Synthesis Paper

Argument Synthesis Paper

 

We have read four different perspectives on the issue of the development of robotics. Some people believe that the use of robotics is advancing our society. Others contend that such developments are changing society negatively. What is your position on this issue? Is the development of robotics helpful or harmful?

Task: Write an argument synthesis paper in which you answer this question using the sources listed below to support your response. Make a claim that you justify with reasons and evidence from the texts.  Your goal should be to persuade readers that your position on this issue is superior to other perspectives. The claim is your informed opinion on the issue, but you will use the texts to validate your stance. Successful completion of this task also requires that you acknowledge and respond to opposing viewpoints.

Purpose: The ability to argue effectively is a skill that is crucial for success at the university level and beyond. The best arguments are ones that incorporate material from other informed sources to support their claims. This assignment allows you to demonstrate your understanding of a complex issue based on your comprehension of the texts and synthesis of information pertinent to the topic. It also displays your ability to argue persuasively by appropriately integrating relevant information and ideas from the readings into your paper to justify your position.

 

Sources:

“The Ethical Frontiers of Robotics” by Noel Sharkey

“Alone Together: The Robotic Moment” by Sherry Turkle

“To Siri, With Love” by Judith Newman

“A Swiveling Proxy That Will Even Wear a Tutu” by Robbie Brown

Introductory Section

–Introduction of the issue

-Explanation and Background:

Familiarize your readers with the controversy.

Give them the information they need to understand the issue at hand.

-Claim: Give your position on the issue

-Mention your main reasons for your claim

Body of the Essay:

• The body of your paper should focus on several reasons for your position AND supporting evidence for each reason. Use evidence from the texts whenever possible.  You also must provide explicit acknowledgment and refutation of opposing views.
• For ideas about how to organize your body paragraphs, refer to pp. 226-228 in Writing in the Disciplines.

 Conclusion

Recap your argument and reiterate why your audience should care about this issue; rephrase and restate your thesis. Remember to always leave your readers thinking critically about the issue.

Grading Rubric for Final Draft

CONTENT ____/40 points                                                                                                             

1. Provides background information on the issue to frame your argument.
2. Contains a thesis statement that introduces the writer’s position regarding the topic explained in the paper.
3. Develops an arguable position. Someone should be able to disagree with your opinion on the issue.
4. Reasons for your claim are supported by evidence from the readings.
5. Ideas and information from the readings are integrated with and connected to one another.
6. Explains HOW your evidence supports your thesis statement. Do not give evidence from the texts without connecting it to your claim.
7. Considers the evidence for both sides of the issue. Explicitly discuss and respond to the reasons and evidence for opposing views.

ORGANIZATION ____/30 points

1. Overall structure—the paper has an effective introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. All paragraphs support the thesis statement.
2. Paragraph development—each paragraph focuses on one subtopic only and is developed with ideas and information from the readings.
3. Transitional phrases—effective use of transitions within and between paragraphs to show relationships between topics, ideas, and   sources.

LANGUAGE ____/20 points

1. Appropriate use of parts of speech (verbs, nouns, adjectives, adverbs)
2. Appropriate use of verbs and verb forms.

 

3. Paraphrases from the text are integrated into the paper, cited, and reflect an understanding of the reading.

 

4. Appropriate sentence structure (few if any run-ons or fragments) and variety (appropriate use of coordination and subordination;

mix of  simple, compound, and complex sentences)

 

5. Infrequent grammatical and mechanical errors that do not interfere with meaning.

 

FORMAT _____/10 points

1. APA Citation—In-text citations and list of references using APA Style at the end of the paper.
2. Original title

 

3. Typed in 12 point font, double-spaced, 1” margins