Overview
Overview
This is your second writing assignment in the class. The assignment requires you to write a formal essay answering the question in the prompt. Please read the directions below carefully, then read the prompt, and then proceed to write your essay. Do not collaborate on this paper with other students. Utilizing ChatGPT or another generative AI product for the final product is not acceptable, but AI may be used for generating ideas, outlining, or assistance with editing.
Directions
Essays will be between 1 ½ and 2 pages in length (500-750ish words). To ensure students do not go under the required length, they should write the essays in a MS Word document prior to submitting it in canvas. It is okay if you go over the required length within reason.
The correct formatting will be double-spaced, with 12-point font in Times New Roman typeface and 1” margins in MS Word. Paragraphs should be indented
You do not have to provide a "works cited" page for materials on the syllabus, though you should utilize in-text citations (author, year, page). The paper must include a "works cited" or "references" page if you use any material other than those assigned in the syllabus. In-text citations must be utilized for all sources, including the textbook.
Do not plagiarize.
Prompt
How do the President and Congress create domestic policy? Under what circumstances is the President more likely to get what they want, and under what circumstances is Congress more likely to get what they want? What are some concrete examples of this relationship between policy, the President, and Congress?
A successful essay will:
Follow conventional academic essay format (contains an intro paragraph, thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph)
Clearly define the relationship between Congress and the President
Outline the circumstances in which Congress is likely to be more successful in shaping policy than the President
Name and describe at least one policy in which Congress succeeded
Outline the circumstances in which the President is likely to be more successful in shaping policy than Congress
Name and describe at least one policy in which the President succeeded
- Refer to at least one course material (article readings or the textbook)
- Rubric
- Organization: (20 points possible)
- Essay is easy to read due to clear organization of main points (10 points)
- Method of organization is well-suited to topic (10 points)
- Content: (65 points possible)
- Essay addresses assignment prompt (20 points)
Examples in essay support thesis (15 points)
Examples are specific and correct (10 points)
Thesis is specific and addresses the essay prompt (10 points)
Conclusion appropriately summarizes the main points (10 points)
- Style and Mechanics: (15 points possible)
- Essay consistently uses proper punctuation, grammar, and spelling (2.5 points)
Essay is written in appropriate academic language (2.5 points)
Essay has works cited, if using outside material, and appropriate in-text citations (5 points)