Research Paper: Controversial and Banned Books

 

Format: Typed, MLA
Length: 1000 to 1500 words (that’s about 4-5 pages)
Points Possible: 200

 

Purpose:
The main purpose of this paper is for you 1) to review the past controversies of one book of literature intended for children or teens, 2) to evaluate and weigh the pros and cons of the viewpoints of others, and then 3) to arrive at your own conclusion about whether or not the book should or should not be banned. So this is an argumentative research paper, though you will be providing background on the controversy as well as providing information on the book, including but not limited to the parts that cause alarm.

Assignment:
Choose a children’s book that has caused controversy (some want it banned, for example). Read the book, review the controversy as it has played out in the media/newspapers, and review relevant literature on banning of books. Then, determine whether you believe the book should be banned and why or why not. Your paper should include 3 to 5 sources, including the children’s book upon which your paper focuses.

Scenario:
Write a paper as if you are an instructor at a school whose Language Arts or English department is currently dealing with public outcry over the choice of a particular book (the one you’ve selected for this research paper!). Before deciding on whether or not the school board will ban the book, the school board has asked for written arguments. Your principal has asked that you prepare a written report for the board.

Technical Details:
¨ Title your paper with your Book Title: and include a unique subtitle after the colon.
¨ Address the board in a letter format (e.g. Dear Vista Elementary Board of Trustees).
¨ Include a Works Cited page (use 3-5 sources).
¨ Organize your paper in a way that makes sense.
¨ Follow rules of grammar.

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