Assignment Task: Write a 5-6 page l2pt double-spaced essay answering the following question:
Was freedom or slavery more influential to the development of the United States during the Early Republic? Explain making sure that your response pays close attention to geographic factors and change over time.
Utilize and integrate primary source documents to analyze themes, support your arguments, and develop interpretations. Your essay should contain an introduction, at least three body paragraphs that incorporate primary source evidence, and a conclusion that ties the points together and elaborates on historical significance.
- Your introduction should contain your central argument in answer to the essay question prompt. Remember, your first few sentences should really compel your reader to keep reading. Here you set up the argument that you will follow through the entire paper, so make sure that it stays with your reader. How well does the introduction set up the topic (with a thesis statement/organizing idea) and establish a thematic framework for the reader? Generally, papers should begin with an introduction that: captures the reader's attention, introduces the topic, sets out an interpretation/argument about the topic, and offers a "road map" for the reader to understand how the writer is going to defend their interpretation/argument.
- Each body paragraph should open with a thesis sentence and be devoted to primary source analysis. Remember to interrogate your sources thoroughly: What type of primary source have you chosen (broadside, etter, diary entry, painting, etc.)? When (and by whom) was it produced? What was its intended audience? How well does the paper use available evidence/research to support your answer?
- Clarity of writing: How effective is the order of presentation and transitions? Are there grammatical errors? How effective are the topic sentences and paragraphs?
- Double check your work! Make sure that all of your claims are backed up by primary source evidence and analysis, and above all that you've presented your case clearly and succinctly.