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Argument essay

Has the growth of presidential power helped or hurt?

  • Units 1 and 2
  • 6 points
  • About 40 minutes

You take a position on a question and defend it in an essay, using evidence from the required foundational documents and what you know from the course, and you respond to the other side. On the exam: Question 4 of 4 in the free-response section (1 hour 40 minutes for all four, 50% of your score).

Suggested time: 40 minutes

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The essay

6 points

Develop an argument about whether the growth of presidential power over time has strengthened or weakened the American system of government. Use at least one piece of evidence from one of the following foundational documents: • Federalist No. 70 • Federalist No. 51 • U.S. Constitution In your essay, you should: • Make a defensible claim or thesis that answers the question and sets up a line of reasoning. • Back up your claim with at least TWO pieces of specific, relevant evidence. At least one must come from a foundational document listed above; the other may come from a different foundational document or from your knowledge of course concepts. • Explain, using reasoning, why your evidence supports your claim or thesis. • Address an opposing or alternative perspective by refuting it, conceding part of it, or rebutting it.

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