UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN (UTAR)

CENTRE FOR FOUNDATION STUDIES

FOUNDATION IN ARTS
FHHM1012 CRITICAL THINKING
Session: 201505

Assignment 1: Reflective Writing

(Individual Assignment)
Task
You are required to write an argumentative essay on an issue of your choice.

Objective of Assignment
The objective of this assignment is to develop students critical thinking skills using
different argumentative scenarios. Students are required to communicate their ideas
logically and critically.

Instructions to Students
i.

ii.
iii.

iv.

Start by choosing one issue that is open to argument, taken from any English local
newspaper OR local online newspaper. The issue chosen must have been reported
within the last three (3) months only. Take care that you DO NOT select any
sensitive issues that are racial, religious or political in nature.
After selecting an issue, you are to construct the Question at Issue.
Once you are done (i) and (ii), you must see your tutor personally to check on the
suitability of the topic. You can only proceed once your topic has been approved by
your tutor.
You are required to:
examine the issue critically that is, look at it from both sides
state your opinion (make a stand)
justify your opinion using two (2) relevant arguments, elaborating each
argument with supporting points and details
include a refuting argument

Other Important Details

ITEMS
Length of
Essay

Format

REMARKS
About 250 words
(minimum 200 words, but NOT longer than 250 words) otherwise marks
will be deducted

a) The essay must be typewritten and submitted in print using:

- Font type : Times New Roman
- Font size : 12-point
- Line spacing: Double Spacing
b) Bind your assignment using tape binding, NOT comb binding.
c) Use the cover page template that has been set for you.
d) Your assignment should also include the cut out newspaper report
(photostated copy is also acceptable) or a print-out of the report
from the online
You are required to submit the assignment to your Tutor
by 1p.m. on Friday, 24th July 2015 (Week 7).

Deadline
Marks will be deducted for assignments that are submitted after the
deadline.

Allocation of Marks
You will be graded in the following areas on a total of 30 marks. Your total marks will
then be converted to 15% for your coursework marks.
Your essay will be evaluated according to:
selection of issue
the depth and clarity of arguments supporting the point of view
manner of refuting
the comprehensiveness and clarity of response
the cohesion of ideas
effective use of language
Marks will depend greatly on your ability to answer the question in a thoughtful manner.