5.2: Argumentative Model Essay 1

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Read the essay and answer the questions that follow.

Sally Smith

Professor Chen

ESL 0202 LD05

29 April 2019

Dress Code in College

(1) Since the shift to online work and school, it appears that people have forgotten how to get dressed. Casual comfortable clothing is the new standard, and many students celebrate the freedom to wear anything they want when coming to campus. However, others remind us that PGCC is an institution of learning that guides students toward paths that they may follow for the rest of their lives. The college has a right to establish standards for behavior as well as clothing. It is clear that as a part of its responsibility as an academic institution, PGCC should establish and enforce a dress code for its students, faculty, and staff to follow.

(2) One reason for a dress code at college is that students will soon be required to follow dress codes in the professional world where uniforms and other standards of dress are the norm. In the professional world, professional attire like modest skirts, slacks, and button-down shirts are expected of most employees. Adopting a dress code at college, in fact, will create a more cohesive and respectful social climate on campus by encouraging pride in academics and professionalism. Our students will be learning early to present themselves as ready to enter into the professional world.

(3) Another reason for a dress code on campus is to promote collaboration among different groups of people. Students in the community college are often required to sit together and work in groups with those from different ages, cultures, and genders. They may not be aware of the impact that overly casual or revealing clothing can have on their classmates, making them uncomfortable or hesitant to engage. By dressing professionally, students will approach the classroom and working in groups with more confidence. Their clothing will not create obstacles, and they will benefit from more collaboration and engagement in the classroom.

(4) Some students claim that a dress code in college isn’t needed because they are adults, and adults should be able to express themselves with creativity and freedom. While students may feel that they have a right to express their identity through their clothing, they do not realize that in a civil society there are limits to calling attention to oneself. In the larger world, most adults do not have the luxury of expressing themselves without regard to their context. While freedom of expression might apply in social situations, it isn’t a right that extends to the academic institution that is trying to shape future professionals.

(5) In conclusion, PGCC should consider enforcing a dress code for its college community. A dress code that inspires collaboration and professionalism in the classroom would better prepare students for the expectations they will face in their careers after college. Our college is an institution of learning that strives to push our students forward in the standards they embrace. PGCC will better serve its purpose by guiding students in style as well as intellect.

Questions about Model Essay 1:

What problem is the writer addressing? How does the writer introduce this issue?
What is the writer’s position on this topic?
How are the body paragraphs organized? Where does the writer address the opposition?

Exercise 2

Fill in this outline to show how the essay “Dress Code in College” is organized.

I. Introduction

A. General Information (The issue): _________________________________

B. Thesis Statement (writer’s position): _______________________________

II. Supporting Reason: ______________________________________

Supporting details (facts, statistics, examples or quotations) _______________

III. Supporting Reason: ______________________________________

Supporting details (facts, statistics, examples or quotations) ________________

IV. Opposing Argument: ______________________________________

details: _____________________________________

Writer’s response: ______________________________________

details: ______________________________________

V. Conclusion

Restate thesis: ______________________________________

Summarize reasons: ______________________________________

Recommendation/Prediction: ______________________________________