Week 1 Essay: Gun control

Assignment Overview

For your final project in Composition 2, you will write a comprehensive argumentative essay on the topic of gun control in the United States. This essay should present a clear and well-developed position on this complex issue, supported by thorough research and critical analysis.

Requirements

• Length: 1,000-1,500 words (approximately 4-6 pages, double-spaced)
• Format: MLA format with 12-point Times New Roman font, 1-inch margins
• Structure: Introduction with thesis statement, body paragraphs with topic sentences, and conclusion
• Sources: Minimum of 5 credible academic sources published within the last 10 years
• Citations: In-text citations following MLA 9th edition guidelines
• Works Cited: Separate page with proper MLA formatting for all sources

Content Guidelines

• Clearly state your position on gun control in your thesis statement
• Address multiple perspectives on the issue, including opposing viewpoints
• Include relevant historical context and current legislation
• Consider ethical, legal, social, and political dimensions of the debate
• Analyze the effectiveness of existing or proposed gun control measures
• Provide concrete examples to support your arguments

Academic Integrity Statement

All work submitted must be entirely original and created solely by you, the student. The use of artificial intelligence tools, including but not limited to ChatGPT, Claude, or any other AI writing assistant, is strictly prohibited for any portion of this assignment. Detection of AI-generated content will result in an automatic failing grade for the course and may lead to disciplinary action including possible expulsion from the university as per the Academic Integrity Policy.

Evaluation Criteria

Your essay will be evaluated based on:

• Clarity and strength of argumentation
• Quality and integration of research sources
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Organization and logical flow
• Writing mechanics (grammar, spelling, punctuation)
• Adherence to MLA formatting requirements
• Originality and academic integrity

Submission Instructions

Submit both a digital copy through the course portal by due date. Late submissions will be penalized at a rate of 10% per day.