Within the Canadian Points of View Reference Centre (which you can access via the Douglas College Library—you will need to consent to having a personal account with EBSCO information Services), explore topics from the list that interest you and about which you would like to develop a more informed perspective. Select one of the topics from the list, and prepare to write a persuasive essay in which you will argue your own point of view, supported by your own experience and/or observation, as well as research.
Your essay, which you will plan, research, and write this week and next, must include at least one of each of the following six types of research sources:
Points of View essay
Magazine
Newspaper
Reference book (may be a second Points of View essay)
Radio or TV news transcript
Academic journal.
You can easily access relevant sources of all of these types under Related Information on the left of the Overview of your topic. You can also use the search bar at the top of the home page (click on New Search) of the Canadian Points of View Reference Centre to find sources. Click on the question mark for pointers on conducting basic as well as advanced searches.
Follow the guidelines below (which you can also find in the Guide to Critical Analysis on the sidebar of each Points of View essay).
Based on the readings and review of the Related Items offered, consider the Point and Counterpoint commentary in light of your own set of personal values and understanding of the topic.
Reflect on which arguments about the topic you chose from Canadian Points of View you accept, those outlined in the Point, Counterpoint, or a completely different argument. For you, what is the single most compelling argument regarding corona virus 2019 (COVID-19), and why?
Write an 800- to 1,000-word essay response to the question above; include a thesis statement and 2–3 supporting arguments. See “Write a Thesis Statement” and “Write a Persuasive Essay” research guides for tips on how to write your essay.
Use facts from other resources found in Points of View Reference Centre™, other than the Overview, Point, and Counterpoint information. See “Judge Fact vs. Opinion” in the Research Guide section to help determine the value of the information you find.
Investigate some of the sources cited in the Bibliography at the end of each Point of View essay to review the kinds of sources those authors consulted.
For website information, first review the research guide article titled “Evaluate a Website.” Use the information you find there to guide your decisions on which sites provide the most credible information and would add value to your essay.
Suggest ways in which the controversy surrounding the topic you chose from Canadian Points of View could be resolved.
