Write a 300-to-600-word argument-based essay in response to the following prompt:
In the early 1800s, were Americans motivated more by economic interest or cultural values? Pose a clear, strong argument and support it with examples from diverse groups of peoples alive during the early 1800s. (You can’t cover everyone and every time period, but do cover a solid range of peoples.) Use a variety of sources viewed in Weeks 5-11 to demonstrate evidence of your argument.
Grading criteria:
Argument: 3 points: Does your essay have a clear and specific argument that answers the question?
Evidence: 3 points: Do you use evidence to defend your argument? Is the evidence thorough? Do you use a range of evidence — like historians/experts (represented in American Yawp and videos) as well as some primary sources (words/drawings from that time)?
Clarity: 2 points: Does your paper flow clearly? Is your writing clear and free of distracting technical errors (such as grammar, spelling, and punctuation)? Use your own words and you are encouraged to use informal language, but for an academic purpose. If the essay uses informal language, is it blended intentionally with academic language?