Compose a causal argument (600-900 words long) on a topic of your choice.
A causal argument generally takes the form, "X causes (does not cause) Y." The argument typically proceeds 1.) by explaining the causal mechanism directly, 2.) by using induction or statistical correlation as evidence, and/or 3.) by claiming similarity to an analogous situation or precedent.
For this paper, you are not required to do research, but you are required to provide evidence for every assertion that you make. As a result, you may decide that you need to do research in order to gather evidence and strengthen your argument. If so, you must document your sources appropriately (i.e., consult The New Century Handbook, pp. 276-346, and follow an appropriate documentation format).
I recommend that you choose a topic about which you already know and care a great deal. Don't choose a topic because you think it will impress me or, worse yet, because you think it will be easy. Choose a topic that has some relevance to your interests and your life. If you unexpectedly had a couple extra free hours, what would you do with them? What kind of factual TV do you like to watch (e.g., documentaries, news magazines, talk shows, ESPN programs, National Geographic specials, or History Channel series)? What magazines or books do you like to read? Choose a topic related to your interests. Over the years, I've read perfectly interesting, successful papers on just about everything -- from knitting to professional wrestling, from the causes of baseball's woes to the reasons for the popularity of rap music, from the source of the success of The Simpsons to the basis of Shakespeare's enduring reputation as the greatest writer in the English language.
Keep in mind that your paper will be graded based on my usual grading criteria for papers.
I recommend that all students take advantage of the free tutoring services available through the Tutoring & Academic Enhancement Center. Click here to go to the Center's homepage for more information. For online assistance, go to the OWL (Online Writing Lab) at http://owl.department.tcnj.edu/.