Choose one of the four thematic topics below and write an argumentative essay that addresses an aspect of that issue. Remember, in an argumentative essay you take a stance and argue your position using evidence (textual analysis, examples, etc.). You will take a stance and provide evidence using at least two of the essays from the readings we have covered in this course, as well as at least two appropriate, academic outside sources. This essay must be at least 1200 words and follow the formatting guidelines for essays in this course. Please bold your thesis statement. See the Assignment Expectations for additional details on the essays.

The Importance of Learning

• “Learning to Read and Write,” by Frederick Douglass
• “The Education of Women,” by Daniel Defoe
• “The Joy of Reading and Writing,” by Sherman Alexie

The Process of Writing

• “Reading to Write,” by Stephen King
• “Professions for Women,” by Virginia Wolf
• “Shitty First Drafts,” by Anne Lamott

Being Black in America

• “The Fourth of July,” by Audre Lorde
• “Paranoid Style of Policing,” by Ta-Nehisi Coates
• “Learning to Read and Write,” by Frederick Douglass

A Multicultural Existence

• “Two Ways to Belong in America,” by Bharati Mukherjee
• “Lunch,” by Cristina Henriquez
• “Mother Tongue,” by Amy Tan