Multimodal Composition Project

Part 1: Policy Proposal

Your proposal must:

• Be at least 2,000 words (including the References page)
• Propose a new or significantly revised policy
• Clearly define the problem and explain why it matters
• Present a realistic, well-supported policy proposal
• Include at least four credible, reliable sources, cited in APA style
• Include a personal perspective or story that connects you to the issue
• Use clear structure, logical reasoning, and persuasive rhetorical strategies

Suggested Structure

Introduction

1. Introduce the problem
2. Briefly preview your proposed policy
3. End with a strong thesis statement

Problem Analysis

1. Describe the issue in depth using evidence
2. Explain who is affected and whats at stake
3. Discuss why the current policy is not working

Personal Connection

1. Share a story, experience, or observation that shows why this issue matters to you
2. Use it to deepen the readers emotional understanding

For this, my personal story is that I have 10+ years of experience, and 4 Professional Industry certifications, yet I still get turned down from jobs because of a lack of a degree, while individuals who have little to no experience, with no industry certifications, end up getting the job. Not only has this happened to me, but to people I know and it can cause hardship and stress.

Policy Proposal

1. Clearly explain your proposed policy
2. Who would implement it? How would it work?

Counterarguments & Challenges

1. Anticipate possible objections or limitations
2. Respond with reasoning and/or evidence

Conclusion

1. Re-emphasize the urgency and potential impact
2. Leave the reader with a call to action or a powerful final insight

Sources

You must include:

• At least four credible sources (e.g., peer-reviewed journals, government reports, reputable news outlets)
• Proper in-text citations and a References page in APA format

Here is my working thesis:

Technical organizations should revise hiring policies to shift IT roles from degree-based requirements to a skills-based model that prioritizes certifications and relevant experience to improve hiring efficiency, workforce quality, and employee retention.

Here are the sources I have so far:

Pong, C. (2024, December 26). 90% Of Companies Make Better Hires Based On Skills Over Degrees. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/cynthiapong/2024/12/26/90-of-companies-make-better-hires-based-on-skills-over-degrees/

SHRM Labs. (2024). Transforming HR: The Rise of Skills-Based Hiring and Retention Strategies. Retrieved February 7, 2026, from https://www.shrm.org/labs/resources/transforming-hr-the-rise-of-skills-based-hiring-and-retention-strategies

Crist, C. (2025, May 27). 1 in 4 employers say theyll eliminate degree requirements by years end. HR Dive. https://www.hrdive.com/news/employer-eliminate-degree-requirements-2025/748998/

The sources must be in apa

Here is the rubric:

• Clearly defines a significant problem with compelling evidence of urgency. Demonstrates thorough understanding of who is affected and what’s at stake.
• Presents a concrete, specific, and realistic policy proposal with clear implementation details (who, how, when). Proposal directly addresses the identified problem.
• Effectively integrates 4+ credible sources using varied signal phrases and perfect APA citations. Sources strongly support the argument.
• Includes a compelling personal story or perspective that effectively humanizes the issue and strengthens the argument’s emotional impact.
• Thoughtfully anticipates and addresses multiple potential objections with strong reasoning and evidence.
• Excellent organization with clear thesis, logical flow, effective transitions, and strong conclusion. Writing is engaging and error-free.
• Meets all requirements: 2,000+ words, double-spaced, proper APA format, complete References page.

Here is some more evaluation criteria:

Policy Proposal (150 points)

• Clear problem definition with evidence of urgency and impact
• Concrete, feasible policy proposal with specific implementation details
• Integration of 4+ credible sources with proper APA citations
• Personal connection that humanizes the issue
• Thoughtful consideration and response to counterarguments
• Strong organization, writing quality, and adherence to format requirements