Paper # 2

English 110
Detorie Spring 2009
Assignment # 2

Paper Schedule:
3/4: Paper Assigned
3/9: Typed Thesis and Plan due for Peer Review (bring 2 copies)
3/16: Final Draft due at the beginning of class

Your purpose in this paper is to state and explain an idea based on a topic given below. You should first explore the topic, using some of the methods discussed in your Penguin Handbook. Your exploration should lead to a working thesis and a tentative plan for developing the thesis. Bring two typed copies of your thesis and plan to class on 3/9. After we review these plans in class, you will write a first draft. The final draft, revised by your own careful review, is due on 3/16.

What I’m looking for:
Length 900-1200 words (3-5 pages)
Independent intellectual effort and thoughtfulness
A clear and wel1-focused thesis that is specific and interesting
A clear scheme of organization: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
Unified paragraphs with topic sentences and strong transitions between paragraphs
Backing up your ideas with examples from the text
Quotes that are integrated in way that demonstrates close, thoughtful reading
Skillfully constructed sentences
Evidence of reflection and revision
Proper use of MLA citation and documentation (i.e. in-text citation and a works cited page)

Choose one of the following topics:

1. In “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” King says that to defy or evade the law is to invite anarchy (para. 20). Explain what King means by this in the context of his letter. Look up anarchy in a good dictionary or an encyclopedia. Would anarchy be less or more desirable than the conditions that existed in Birmingham in the 1960s? Be sure to include quotes from the letter to support and illustrate your position.
2. In a sense, Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s “Declarations of Sentiments and Resolutions” represents an agenda of things that must be done to help establish the equality of women. How do you think Stanton would feel about the condition of women today? Would she feel that there is anything that remains to be done today? Is there enough progress being made in these areas? Be sure to include quotes from the Declaration to support and illustrate your claims.
3. In “A Theory of Justice,” John Rawls coins several phrases that many commentators have found useful: “justice as fairness,” “the veil of ignorance,” “primary goods,” and “the original position.” Describe and evaluate the most interesting idea that Rawls raises for you in his thoughts about the nature of justice. Decide whether it should guide people in their choices in a society and, if possible, describe how it could be put into effect. Be sure to use quotes from the article to support and illustrate your claims.
4. Write a letter in which you address an injustice. Just as King aligns himself with Paul’s letters in the Bible, attempt to align yourself with King. You may do this by drawing comparisons between the injustices King describes and/or the way in which he describes and addresses those injustices. You must use sources (King’s article and additional sources re: the injustice you are addressing) to support and illustrate your claims.
5. Got an idea? Run it by me.




GOOD LUCK!