Part One: Develop an Argument
For those of you assigned to do so, post an argumentative essay which addresses a central question of the origins of World War One:
Given the potentially lethal combination of long-term historical forces, was World War One inevitable?
Follow the following directions:
- make sure that your name is in the post
- make sure that you have a title that clearly indicates your position on the issue (e.g. “The Inevitable War” or “A War of Choice”)
- one-page, single-spaced
- Demonstrate a clear stance using a thesis statement that is specific, complex and refutable.
- use and cite 2-3 scholarly sources to support your argument. Be honest–if you use a source, cite it
- Post your essay in the “comments” link below
Part Two: Defend Your Argument
- When the essays are posted, you will have a couple of days to write a refutation of your classmates’ arguments.
- Demonstrate that you have read 3-5 student essays that take a stance in opposition to yours
- Address the authors with whom you do not agree by name (refer to specific authors)
- You must disagree with them in a scholarly manner. Be diplomatic Do not get personal.
