In a well-organized essay, explain the controversy and the differing viewpoints in the introductory paragraph. In the body paragraphs, explain your reasoning with textual evidence from two to three of the texts.

Argumentative Essay: Flag-Burning

The question of whether or not flag-burning as a form of protest should or should not be prohibited continues to be a controversial issue. Some people think this is an acceptable practice; others profoundly disagree. The articles that you are reading address these two views.
Read the articles. You may annotate, highlight, and take notes on the articles. After you have read and annotated the articles, then you will write an essay individually.
In a well-organized essay, explain the controversy and the differing viewpoints in the introductory paragraph. After examining both sides of the issue, you need to take a stand on the issue in your thesis statement. Then, in the body paragraphs, explain your reasoning with textual evidence from two to three of the texts. Argue which side contains stronger evidence and factual support, and more persuasive appeals. Include counterclaims and rebuttals.
• Excerpts from Texas V. Johnson Supreme Court Decision • “Impassioned Arguments Mark High Court Flag-Burning Decision” • “Burning the Flag” Pro/Con articles: • “Burning the American Flag: First Amendment Right or a Crime?” • “Burning the American Flag is a Threat to Our Country”
Argumentative Essay Components To ensure you have constructed a successful essay and will receive a high grade, your final must include the following components: Claim/Focus The claim is clear, precise, and thoroughly addresses the prompt. The response maintains focus on the main idea throughout. A low grade in this category may result if- The claim is absent. The response may lack focus, or be too brief. Data/Evidence The response contains thorough and convincing evidence that is smoothly integrated to support the claim. A low grade in this category may result if- The response contains no evidence to support the claim. Analysis The response contains specific, relevant analysis of the evidence. A low grade in this category may result if-The response contains no analysis to support the claim. Counterclaim/Rebuttal The response presents and addresses alternate or opposing claims clearly. A low grade in this category may result if-The response does not present or address alternate or opposing claims. Organization The response has a clear progression of ideas from beginning to end. Strong transitions are used between ideas. A low grade in this category may result if-There is no clear progression of ideas; irrelevant and off topic information distracts from the focus. Few or no transitions are used. Language and Vocabulary The response clearly expresses ideas using strong academic language appropriate for the audience and purpose. A low grade in this category may result if-The response is confusing and/or shows no awareness of audience or purpose. Conventions Few, if any, errors are present in usage and sentence formation. Effective and consistent use of punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. A low grade in this category may result if-Errors are frequent, severe and distract from the meaning Source Material:
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