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Argumentative Papers: The Basics

Controversy

controversy

What You Need to Know

Understanding Your Assignment

Before you begin looking for information you should make sure you understand your assignment. Some good questions are:

  • How many pages?
  • How many sources?
  • What kinds of sources?
    • Books
    • Articles
    • Websites
  • What format?

Your professor is your best resource to answer these questions.

image of student with her hand raised

Research Basics - Step by Step

Breaking Down The Research Process    

The following outline gives a simple and effective strategy for finding information for a research paper and documenting the sources you find. Depending on your topic and your familiarity with the library, you may need to rearrange or recycle these steps. Adapt this outline to your needs. We are ready to help you at every step in your research.                                         

  1. Choose a topic - or have one assigned
  2. Understand your topic
    • Background reading
    • Consider a main focus
    • Refine your topic 
  3. Search Sources
  4. Write your paper – Informative, Analytical, Argumentative, Critical
  5. Cite Your Sources

    Developing Your Argument

    Writing an argumentative paper on a controversial issue requires that you look at both sides of an issue and take a position on one side or the other.  You not only take a stand on an issue, but you must defend it against opposing points of view. Therefore, your argumentative research paper will involve advocacy and persuasion.

    What to do:

    • Select your topic
    • Research the issues surrounding the topic
    • Read other writers’ arguments for and against
    • Take a stand
    • Present supporting evidence in favor of your position
    • Defend your position against opposing points of view
    • Anticipate and deflect arguments against your position
    • Make your case persuasively 

    For step by step help on researching and writing an argumentative paper vistit the library's Controversial Issues Research Guide

    Talk to a Librarian

    Need Help 

     

    The Cerritos College Librarians can help you with your research in a variety of ways:

    Librarians are available during library hours to answer your questions by phone or chat.
    (562) 860-2451 x2425

    Cerritos College Library | 11110 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650 | 562-860-2451 | Reference ext 2425 | Circulation ext 2424