The Argument Evaluation essay should be 750-1,000 words (3-4 pages). It will be focused on identifying and evaluating an argument within a passage of your choosing from one of our assigned texts (the Republic, the Apology, or the Nicomachean Ethics). This essay must have an introduction paragraph, at least 2 body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph. This essay MUST use quotations from the text you choose, integrate those quotations into your sentences, and then cite those quotations and any use of the text in either Chicago Turabian or MLA format (see writing resources). No other sources (like SparkNotes or Wikipedia) may be consulted for this essay other than the Republic, the Apology, or the Nicomachean Ethics. If you consult a source and do not cite it that is plagiarism and it will be reported to the Dean.
Identifying an argument consists of:
A) The identification of the main thesis or claim for which the author is arguing
B) The identification of the reasoning used to support that claim. How does Plato or Aristotle support the argument he is making? What reasons does he give? What is his logical reasoning for asserting his claim and thinking it is true? What is his argument?
C)The identification of potential objections the author raises about how someone could criticize their argument.