Guidelines for the Final Paper

Instructions: Write a 1200 essay that persuades adults on the topic you selected. The essay should include five paragraphs. A references list should be on a separate page at the end. Type and submit the essay in a Word document, 12-point font and double spaced. Use the correct APA format for sources and the references list. The paper should include quotes, summaries and paraphrased statements from sources.

1. Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Paragraph 1: Introduction:

· 5-7 sentence paragraph

· Introduce your topic. Provide an overview or background on the topic with information from at least one (1) source. Use the proper APA citation/reference for this source.

· State your position or where you stand on the topic (either for or against it)

· State your thesis

Evidence/Support Paragraph 2: Main Idea 1 __________________

· 5 – 7 sentence paragraph about why main idea one supports your thesis

· Include introduction sentence to introduce main idea 1.

· Include at least two (2) sources that support this main idea. You can summarize this information, use quotes, or use a combination of summary and quotes.

· Include conclusion sentence that summarizes main idea 1.

· Use the proper APA citation/reference for the sources.

Evidence/Support Paragraph 3: Main Idea 2: ___________________________________

· 5 – 7 sentence paragraph about why main idea one supports your thesis

· Include introduction sentence that introduces main idea 2.

· Include at least (2) two sources that support this main idea. You can summarize this information, use quotes, or use a combination of summary and quotes.

· Include conclusion sentence that introduces main idea 2.

· Use the proper APA citation/reference for the sources.

Rebuttal Paragraph 4: Arguments of others

· Write a 5 – 7 sentence paragraph that summarizes why others DO NOT support where you stand

· Include one to two (1 – 2) sources that expresses the opinions of others

· Use the information or research you have found to defend your argument despite others who may agree with you. This is called the rebuttal.

Conclusion Paragraph 5: Conclusion

· Write a 4 – 6 sentence paragraph that summarizes your main argument?

· Explain why your thesis / main point is important

· Briefly summarize the research you found to support your thesis

· End with a strong conclusion statement

Reference List

· Create a reference list on the page following your conclusion

· List all references you cited in your paper using the proper APA format

· This list should be in alphabetical order