Diagnostic Essay Revisions

Overview: This assignment is important in that it gives the instructor a direction to start and shape the course. Through this essay, the instructor becomes familiar with the writing styles of each student, and thus can better help them improve their academic writing skills throughout the semester. The essay will be assessed in terms of organization, logical flow of ideas, clarity of explanations, unity and coherence, grammar, vocabulary and style. Another reason for assigning this essay is that it gives the students a starting point for evaluating and improving their own writing performance. 
During the first 3 weeks of class, this class will cover a five-paragraph essay structure along with outlining, paragraph structure, paragraph development and introductions and conclusions. The students will revise their original essay throughout this time, peer review it, and submit the final draft for extensive comments and a grade.
 

Topic: Answer the question provided by the exam prompt.

Type of Assignment: 5-paragraph essay

Task: Choosing one side for the thesis statement, you should argue 3 main points based on experience, opinion and evidence from the article. The final draft of the essay must incorporate skills learned during the Diagnostic Unit, such as outlining, thesis statements, paragraph structure, paragraph development, introductions and conclusions, coherence and unity.

Formatting: Essays should be 1-3 pages, with a title! Times New Roman, Size 12, Double-spaced, with 1-inch margins on all sides. (Paper size: 8 1/2 x 11-inches)

Sources: The article MUST be used at least once in the essay, and should be introduced in the introduction of the essay. Outside sources should be discouraged.

Grading criteria: Please refer to GRADING RUBRIC 
Deadline:The revised diagnostic essay is due Monday, Sept 17 before class in your Dropbox folder named "diagnostic2_your first name". Late submission will be penalized.