Find a second non-fiction, argumentative essay (an argumentative essay takes a position and defends it with evidence, i.e. no reviews, new reports or essays based primarily on personal experience) online from a reputable source—the definition of reputable in this case is somewhat discretionary, but sources with editorial standards or experts in their fields are preferable to individuals’ online blogs or sources with explicit political biases.

Read the essay, then identify the thesis, in one sentence, and in your own words. Then find at least 3 main points of evidence that the author uses to support his or her thesis. After identifying the major points of evidence used by the author, in 3-4 sentences, summarize the point of evidence. provide an example of objective information the essay uses to back up the claim. State how this point of evidence supports the thesis.

Look at the evidence presented by the article, and present in 1-2 complete paragraphs (topic sentence, supporting evidence and commentary, and concluding sentence). In these paragraphs, use at least one direct quotation (using quotation marks) and one indirect quotation (summary with no quotation marks). Which point of evidence of the argument presented is the weakest. How you, or another reader might reasonably challenge this evidence. How the author might improve this weakness in their article.