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Modest Proposal Assignment Sheet

Decent Essays

AP English Language and Composition

Ms. Bond

Modest Proposal Assignment

After reading Swift’s “A Modest Proposal,” it is time for you to be the satirist. First think of a major problem in modern society (It can be a domestic or international struggle). Then create an absurd solution but effectively argue that solution with ethos, logos and pathos. Do not be afraid to experiment with so-called experts, fantastic statistics and confusing syllogism (when you come to a conclusion from two different sources). In fact, a strategy you may want to use is to confuse the reader with absurd complexity.
In a 1-2 page typed essay (double-spaced, 12 pt font, Times New Roman or Calibri size 11 if using
Word 2007), introduce the problem and offer a …show more content…

What does that look like, you say? Read on my dear ones.
The following is a detailed outline of what is expected. You should create an outline first to help organize your thoughts. Then you may begin writing your essay. You may feel free to add additional paragraphs where appropriate, but your essay should follow the basic model below. For proficiency each letter must be fulfilled; advanced papers include the minimum and a controlled use of language, obvious constructed persona, and vivid details:
1. 3 word title followed by 25-30 word subtitle. Your essay should be called “A Modest
Proposal,” but the subtitle should flesh out what societal problem you are trying to solve
(without giving away your “shocking” element). (Swift’s full title is “A Modest Proposal for
Preventing the Children of Poor People in Ireland from Being a Burden to Their Parents or
Country, and for Making Them Beneficial to the Public.” Shoot for something like that.)
2. Paragraph 1: A clear first paragraph that contains an indelible image of your societal problem. (Swift’s image in his first paragraph is that of the mother with six children dressed in rags begging for alms. Try to include an image of your problem that elicits the readers’

3.
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sympathies in a similar way.)
Paragraph 2: A paragraph description of your shocking solution. (This is like the paragraph in which Swift talks “delicious and nourishing” babies.)
Paragraph 3: A list of six clearly labeled “logical reasons”

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