Here is an example. Let's say that you think the Letter from Birmingham Jail DOES make for a compelling argument. Then, your introduction will look something like this: In Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "Letter from Birmingham Jail," he makes a convincing argument that it is never "unwise" nor "untimely" to do the right thing (page number goes here) through the use of a balance of logos, pathos, ethos. If you think he does NOT present an effective argument, then you will consider why, and your grounds might be something like: too much attempt at pathos, not enough of a balance of logos, and a skewed attempt at ethos. From an analytic perspective, you will find flaws, in other words, when considering that standard for "good" argument. (Also consult the $80 list in your notes for more detailed ground language when making this determination.)
Body paragraphs will draw on specific information from the reading itself to develop each of your grounds. Use the paragraph development checklist in your “Notes on Essay Writing and Argument” when writing these paragraphs.
For a 3 -4 page paper, you will spend one or two paragraphs on each ground. Your introduction and conclusion paragraphs must not exceed 1/3 of a page.
Sample Solution