Persuasive Paper Rubric (Final Exam)
Persuasive Essay Topics
Please pick from one of these 2 topics to construct your in-class final exam on May 5th and 7th:
1. In Walter Dean Myer’s book, Monster, Steve Harmon finds himself innocent at the end of the book. If this trial took place in our modern day society, what do you believe the verdict would be. Pick a position. Write an essay arguing the validity of Steve’s innocence, or the contradiction of his guilt. Make sure to prove why our current times would dictate your verdict choice.
2. One of the themes examined greatly in the book is truth. Does “truth” really exist? Pick a position, give examples, make me believe.
Essays should meet the following criteria:
1. Use correct grammar and punctuation
2. Has a clearly stated main claim
3. Uses at least 3 separate outside sources (meaning you can cite multiple times from Monster, but it only counts as one source)
4. Has a clear counterargument and refutation
5. Has a concise conclusion that doesn’t add new information
6. Uses Ethos, Logos, and Pathos to prove your claim
7. Avoids Logical Fallacies
8. Follows correct format (Title, Professor’s name, date, course title, and your name)
9. Uses 1 inch margins, 12pt font, 1.5 spacing, and justified margins
10. Has a clear works cited page of your additional sources
11. Is between 850-1000 words in length
12. Avoids being just a personal opinion