THE TOPIC TO WRITE: The problem of mistrust in health insurers. Is it the fault of the insurance companies or the lack of financial literacy? This is a paper of 6-10 pages. This is a persuasive paper so, you will choose one side of the topic and argue that side. You will be graded on how well you support your argument. Your audience is Congress. You are trying to convince them that whatever stance you are taking is the right one and the one that should direct how they legislate on your topic. In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to convince the reader to believe or do something. Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that one idea is more legitimate than another idea. It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a certain point of view or to take a particular action. The argument must always use sound reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts, giving logical reasons, using examples, and quoting experts. When planning a persuasive essay, follow these steps: 1. Choose your position. Which side of the issue or problem are you going to write about, and what solution will you offer? Know the purpose of your essay. 2. Analyze your audience. Decide if your audience agrees with you, is neutral, or disagrees with your position. 3. Research your topic. A persuasive essay must provide specific and convincing evidence. 4. Structure your essay. Figure out what evidence you will include and in what order you will present the evidence. Remember to consider your purpose, your audience, and your topic. The following criteria are essential to produce an effective argument. Develop a strong thesis – a clear, concise statement of your main argument; the overall idea you’ll be arguing. Your thesis will also serve as a roadmap for the rest of your essay, giving the reader a general idea of the path, your argument will follow. Test your thesis. Your thesis, i.e., argument, must have two sides. It must be debatable. If you can write down a thesis statement directly opposing your own, you will ensure that your own argument is debatable. Disprove the opposing argument. Understand the opposite viewpoint of your position and then counter it by providing contrasting evidence or by finding mistakes and inconsistencies in the logic of the opposing argument. Support your position with evidence. Remember that your evidence must appeal to reason Topic Examples