Test prep: Argumentative essay

Test prep: Argumentative essay



Part I

In his The Teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi in His Own Words (1996), sage Ramana Maharshi said, “The explorers seek happiness in finding curiosities, discovering new lands and undergoing risks in adventures. They are thrilling. But what really is happiness? It is your true self within. Happiness is not to be sought in the external world.”

Carefully consider Ramana Maharshi ’s definition of happiness. Then write a well-developed essay in which you argue your position on what it means to be happy.

In your response you should do the following:

• Respond to the prompt with a thesis that may establish a line of reasoning.
  
• Explain the relationship between the evidence and your thesis.
  
• Select and use evidence to develop and support your line of reasoning.
  
• Demonstrate an understanding of the rhetorical situation.
  

Part II

0.  Download the Scoring Guide attachment.  Read the Scoring Guide over carefully.  Note: All AP English essay types, Argumentative, Synthesis, and Rhetorical Analysis, are marked quite similarly according to this same scheme. 

1.  Assign yourself a grade out of 6 points.

2.  Write ~25 words per part explaining your rationale for your assessment of each of the scored parts; i.e., what score do you think your essay deserves and why based on the Scoring Guide?  Upload everything to the forum.

Part A: Thesis ... /1

Part B: Evidence AND Commentary ... /4

Part C: Sophistication ... /1

Total: /6