*For this first major essay of the semester, you will compose a 3-4 page evaluation essay with 3 credible sources in MLA style which compares and contrasts two similar topics and provides a value judgment after determining which topic is better.
*You will act as a critic for this essay and determine which topic–of the two you choose to write about–has the greater value or worth using at least three criteria to arrive at an overall judgment. That overall judgment will be your thesis at the end of your introductory paragraph. Thesis sentence should also use three criteria to map out your body sections of the essay.
*See chapter 11 in your Patterns textbook prior to starting this major essay. Use 3rd person point of view throughout your paper so that the focus of the essay is on the topic. Only use “I” if you have a personal example that extends or supports your conversation in the essay.
*See pp. 743-751 for a sample essay in MLA style. Also see the sample essay in MLA format at Purdue OWL on the web.
Outline for Evaluation Essay
*Introduction should contain an attention-getter in the form of a shocking statistic, quotation from an expert to magnify your topic, thought-provoking question, scenario, anecdote, or an example to illustrate the focus of the essay. Then, provide background information on the topics for your target audience/ideal reader. Thesis statement or major point is needed at the end of the introduction to hold the entire essay together and map it out. Thesis might look like this: Two Netflix shows that are currently popular include _________ and _________; both are enticing for viewers, but _________ holds more intrigue due to the talented acting, innovative script writing, and _____________. (See pp. 43-54 for a discussion of thesis statements and introductions in academic essays.)
*Body paragraphs should work to support the three areas mapped out in the thesis statement. Focus on one criterion per body section. (Body paragraphs 1 and 2 should relate to criterion #1 in thesis. Body paragraphs 3 and 4 should relate to criterion #2 in thesis. Body paragraphs 5 and 6 should relate to criterion #3 in thesis.) All body paragraphs should be around half a page. Use the MEAL plan structure or use the PIE plan–point, information from reputable source, example, explanation–for development of paragraphs. (See pp. 54-59 for a discussion of body paragraphs in academic essays.)
*Conclusion should be thoughtful and leave the reader thinking about the importance of your overall argument and message. (See pp. 59-61 for a discussion of a conclusion in an academic essay.)
