how do i turn this into a strong essay

PURPOSE AND REQUIREMENTS
For this assignment, write a 1500 word essay on one of the following topics. The essay should have a clear,
concise, and assertive thesis statement (central argument), should be logically organized, and should contain
concrete evidence in the form of quotations or paraphrases from the texts or concrete examples and facts. Your
paper should follow MLA guidelines for formatting and citations. The essay should be double spaced and in
Times New Roman 12 pt. font).

Topic Two: Knowledge as Freedom
Think about: In the “Allegory of the Cave” Plato describes education in terms of “freedom” (i.e., the liberation
of prisoners from the cave). Do you find this vision convincing? How might one be freed (or shackled) through
education?
Write about: Set out clearly how Plato understands the relationship between education and freedom. What does
he say the connection is between the two? Use textual evidence to support your answer. Now engage Plato
critically (play both the believing game and the doubting game). Is he right? Does education lead to freedom?
Why or why not? Use one other author’s ideas in your compelling, thesis-driven paper (Bohm, Lakoff &
Johnson, Newman, Rodriguez, and Emerson are all possibilities).

GRADING CRITERIA
Your essay will be graded in accordance with the “Rubric for Writing/English Courses,” which is located on our
Blackboard page in the “Essay Assignments” folder.
A strong essay will include:
• A clear, specific, and risky argumentative thesis statement.
• Specific, concrete, and relevant evidence and examples.
• A clear link between evidence and the thesis.
• Concrete evidence (direct quotations, paraphrases, or summaries) from at least two course readings.
• Correct use of MLA format, including a Works Cited page.
• Evidence of proof-reading and editing.
• Transitional statements or sentences between shifting ideas and paragraphs.
• An engaging style that is neither too formal nor too informal.