Argue Like a Philosopher
10 scaffolded writing assignments designed to cultivate all of the skills necessary to think critically, argue persuasively, and present one's thoughts clearly and reasonably. Overall, this assignment includes logical reasoning, research (including an annotated bibliography), weekly draft revisions with peer review & grading rubrics, a critical dialogue, reflection, and a final draft.
The Overall Assignment
How to Present, Explain, & Evaluate [PEE] ANY Argument
ASSIGNMENT #1 Topic
ASSIGNMENT #2 Present
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ASSIGNMENT #3 Definitions
ASSIGNMENT #4 Significance
ASSIGNMENT #5 Rationales
ASSIGNMENT #6 Objections
ASSIGNMENT #7 Responses
ASSIGNMENT #8 Dialogue
ASSIGNMENT #9 Draft
ASSIGNMENT #10 Reflection
FINAL DRAFT
Copy of A Modified and Scaffolded PEE Assignment Poster.pdfGuidelines: Writing Philosophy Papers
What has been presented above is what you might understand as the "meat" of a philosophy paper "sandwich" [missing the introduction & conclusion paragraphs (i.e., the "bread")]. Teachers and students may find the following resources helpful on more complete papers. Additionally, here is a sample assignment for applying normative ethical theories to a case study.
MORE RESOURCES
“Tips & Tools for Writing a Philosophy Paper” by UNC Chapel Hill
“Writing a Good Philosophy Paper” by Justin Weinberg
“Writing a Philosophy Paper” by Peter Horban
“Tips on Writing Philosophy Papers” by William Blattner
“How to Write (not Terrible) Philosophy Papers” by Manuel Vargas
“Philosophy Paper Writing Guidelines” by Tim O’Keefe & Anne Farrell
“A Guide to Writing” by Michael Huemer
“Guidelines on Writing a Philosophy Paper” by Stephen Yablo
“7 Steps to a Better Philosophy Paper” by Bryan W. Roberts
“Some Writing Tips for Philosophy” by Brian Earp