Week 2 Paragraphs

You will write three paragraphs about the topic of paper 1. Each paragraph is worth 20 points and must follow MLA formatting rules. Paragraphs on unrelated topics will receive no credit.

MLA Formatting Rules (Apply to All Paragraphs)

• Use third person only (he, she, it, they).
• Do NOT use: I, me, we, us, our, you
• No contractions (e.g., write do not instead of dont)
• Double-space all text
• Use college-level vocabulary appropriate for a research paper
• Complete sentences; no fragments, run-ons, or comma splices
• Quotes can be only 3 lines long maximum, including partial lines. MLA format signal phrase and citation required, and a works cited.

Paragraph 1: Definition (20 Points)

Goal: Define and explain an important term or concept for your paper topic, using at least one credible source.

Requirements:

• Topic sentence introducing the issue
• Signal phrase introducing the source
• Paraphrase or quote from the source with MLA in-text citation
• Critical thinking: Explain what this definition means in the context of the topic
• Include a Works Cited entry below the paragraph
• Do NOT use general dictionaries (e.g., Merriam-Webster). Use topic-specific sources like news articles, academic journals, or policy websites.

Paragraph 2: Broader Significance (20 Points)

Goal: Explain why the topic of your paper is significant and important. What are the larger issues, values, or consequencesinvolved?

Requirements:

• Topic sentence introducing the broader significance
• Discuss what is at stake: values, choices, societal impact, etc.
• You may use a source (optional). If you do, include a Works Cited entry.
• Do NOT use the phrase big picture in the paragraph

Paragraph 3: Specific Example (20 Points)

Goal: Use a specific example to illustrate the issue of your paper.

Requirements:

• Topic sentence introducing the example
• Use a source to describe a real person, event, or situation related to student debt
• Include a signal phrase and either a paraphrase or direct quote with MLA in-text citation
• Explain the significance of the example in relation to the topic
• Include a Works Cited entry below the paragraph