This paper (500 to 800 words) will be written in the test center. You will have two hours and are allowed to bring with you:
– a printed copy of the article by Hans Baer, “Global Warming as a By-product of the Capitalist Treadmill of Production and Consumption–The Need for an Alternative Global System,” which is available through EBSCOHost
– an outline that is fewer than 250 words and contains no full sentences
Tips:
Write a clear thesis that includes the phrase “Baer argues that”
Be sure to pick a side and agree or disagree with the article
Focus more on how Baer argues and less on what he argues
Examine the author’s points and explain whether or not they are effective
Go beyond a simple summary, and do not go through the article chronologically
Look for examples of persuasive techniques, such as ethos, pathos, and logos, but you should avoid using the terms ethos, pathos, and logos (instead, put it in your own words)
If you want to criticize the article, you can point out why the author’s points aren’t effective. Likewise, if you want to praise the article, you can focus on why the points are effective.
If you are unsure whether or not you agree with the argument, you can ask yourself the following questions:
Is the ethos (appeal to authority) reliable or is it unreliable (or missing)?
Is the pathos (appeal to emotion) justified or is it exploitative and without relevance?
Is the logos (appeal to logic) reasonable or is it logically unsound?
Here is a sample essay that I wrote myself, using the same article