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Argumentative, Exploratory, & Rhetorical Analysis Essays on “Death Penalty” – Wr1ter

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Dr. Emily Norton
  • Icon Calendar 21 August 2024
  • Icon Page 6087 words
  • Icon Clock 28 min read

Learning institutions require students to present outstanding essays on specific topics. In particular, a topic of “Death Penalty” is an example of such a theme that learners may encounter during a writing process. Moreover, students may opt to use this topic when writing argumentative, exploratory, and rhetorical analysis essays. Basically, the three essay types follow a unique writing format that enhances a specific need to communicate with readers effectively. Despite a principal difference in formats, authors should use outlines before writing their essays. In essence, a correct process helps to organize ideas in a logical manner that enhances a mode of communication and an intended message. Besides, other important activities one should consider are proofreading a paper and following a sandwich rule when writing body paragraphs. In turn, these activities help people to improve an overall writing quality of an essay on “Capital Punishment” Hence, students need to learn how to write an argumentative essay on “Death Penalty” or basic principles of using exploratory or rhetorical analysis formats for such a paper, with examples to follow.

General Aspects

Students must complete different types of essays during their studies. Basically, some of the common types of scholarly papers include argumentative, exploratory, and rhetorical analysis essays, which rely on varying rules irrespective of their topics. In principle, one can write about a “Death Penalty” topic in different ways based on a chosen essay’s type. Moreover, learners must understand basic rules, formats, and structures for each essay type to prepare a paper that meets basic academic and writing standards. In turn, a “Capital Punishment” topic requires people to give their evaluations of existing facts and provide compelling arguments that allow target readers to develop a better understanding of a presented problem. Hence, authors should write argumentative, exploratory, and rhetorical analysis papers by following specific rules. 

What Is a “Death Penalty” Essay and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a “Death Penalty” essay is a form and type of academic argumentative writing that explores a complex and controversial topic of capital punishment, a legal process where a person is sentenced to death as a consequence of committing a severe crime. For example, the main purpose of writing a “Death Penalty” essay is to critically examine ethical, legal, and social implications of capital punishment (Koons, 2021). In writing, this paper can take various forms, such as argumentative, exploratory, and rhetorical analysis types, depending on a writer’s intent and assignment’s requirements. Further on, such compositions involve discussing some moral arguments for and against capital punishment, analyzing legal precedents, and exploring its impact on society and the justice system in general (C. Steiker & J. Steiker, 2020). Moreover, by presenting well-researched information and diverse viewpoints, these papers encourage readers to form their own informed opinions on this deeply polarizing issue. In terms of pages and words, the length of a “Death Penalty” essay depends on academic levels, specific instructions, and types of papers, while general writing guidelines are:

High School


  • Length: 1-2 pages
  • Word Count: 250-500 words
  • Focus: Basic introduction to a topic with straightforward arguments and examples.

College (Undergraduate)


  • Length: 2-4 pages
  • Word Count: 500-1,000 words
  • Focus: More in-depth analysis, including multiple perspectives, case studies, and a more structured argument.

University (Advanced Undergraduate)


  • Length: 4-8 pages
  • Word Count: 1,000-2,000 words
  • Focus: Detailed exploration with critical analysis, integration of scholarly sources, and a nuanced argument.

Master’s Level


  • Length: 6-12 pages
  • Word Count: 1,500-3,000 words
  • Focus: Comprehensive research with sophisticated analysis, extensive use of academic sources, and a deep exploration of legal, ethical, and social implications for writing.

Ph.D. Level


  • Length: 8-20 pages+ (depending on a research scope)
  • Word Count: 2,000-5,000+ words
  • Focus: Original research, advanced theoretical analysis, and a substantial contribution to a specific field of study, often including new insights or arguments.
How to write argumentative, exploratory, or rhetorical analysis essays on the topic "Death Penalty“ - basic guidelines with tips and examples

Format

SectionContent
TitleA clear, concise title that reflects a main focus of a “Death Penalty” essay.
IntroductionIntroduction to a topic of “Death Penalty.”
Ethical arguments in favor of capital punishment (e.g., retribution, deterrence).
Thesis statement outlining a main persuasive argument or focus of a paper.
Background/ContextHistorical overview of a death penalty activity.
Legal framework and key laws governing a capital punishment process.
Current status and statistics related to this penalty practice (e.g., in specific countries or globally).
Literature ReviewSummary of key research and scholarly debates on an issue.
Different perspectives (ethical, legal, social). Gaps in existing research or ongoing debates.
Arguments For a Death PenaltyEthical arguments in favor of capital punishment (e.g., retribution, deterrence).
Legal arguments supporting legalized execution.
Social and practical benefits (e.g., closure for victims’ families).
Arguments Against a Death PenaltyEthical arguments in favor of a capital punishment (e.g., retribution, deterrence).
Legal arguments opposing legalized execution.
Social and practical drawbacks (e.g., costs, potential for unequal application).
Case Studies/ExamplesSpecific examples or case studies illustrating key points.
Analysis of high-profile cases or landmark court decisions.
AnalysisCritical examination of key arguments presented.
Discussion of some implications for a justice system and society.
Consideration of alternative approaches (e.g., life imprisonment).
ConclusionRestatement of a thesis in light of the evidence and arguments presented for writing.
Summary of key points made throughout a “Death Penalty” essay.
Final thoughts or a call to action, if appropriate.
List of ReferencesList of all sources cited in a “Death Penalty” essay, formatted according to a required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard).

Note: Some writing sections of a “Death Penalty” essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, depending a chosen type of paper and its content. For example, a standard “Death Penalty” essay format is a well-organized structure used to present arguments and evidence, typically including an introduction, body sections for arguments and counterarguments, and a conclusion (Rogers, 2024). In writing, a “Death Penalty” paragraph is a section within an essay that presents a specific point or argument related to capital punishment, supported by evidence and analysis. Further on, scholarly arguments for a death penalty sentence often focus on its potential deterrent effect, retributive justice, and its role in providing closure for victims’ families while upholding a principle that a punishment should fit a crime (Jouet, 2023). Basically, a research question example for a death penalty might be: “Does a death penalty sentence effectively deter violent crime, or does this practice disproportionately affect marginalized communities?” Moreover, the most persuasive argument for a death penalty is that this practice serves as a deterrent to serious crimes, delivers justice by ensuring the most severe punishment for the gravest offenses, and provides closure for victims’ families (Dudai, 2023). In turn, a good example of a thesis statement for a “Death Penalty” essay might be: “A death penalty practice is an outdated and inhumane form of punishment that fails to deter crime, risks executing an innocent, and perpetuates systemic injustices.” However, critical arguments against a death penalty include a risk of wrongful executions, its violation of human rights, a lack of evidence that this practice effectively deters crime, and its often disproportionate application to write about (C. Steiker & J. Steiker, 2020). Finally, to start a “Death Penalty” essay, people begin by introducing a chosen topic with a compelling statement or question that highlights its controversy and relevance, followed by a clear thesis that outlines their main argument or focus.

Steps on How to Write a “Death Penalty” Essay

To write a “Death Penalty” essay, people thoroughly research a chosen topic, present balanced arguments, critically analyze different perspectives, and structure their papers with a clear thesis, supported by evidence, and a strong conclusion. For example, a death penalty is considered justifiable by some people as a means of delivering justice and retribution for the most heinous crimes, ensuring a punishment fits a severity of an offense (Jouet, 2023). Moreover, a logical argument for a death penalty is that this practice ensures the most severe punishment for the gravest offenses, theoretically deterring others from committing similar crimes and permanently removing dangerous individuals from society. Further on, an essay on a “Death Penalty” topic should appear different when it is written in argumentative, explanatory, or rhetorical analysis formats. Basically, each of these essay types has different expectations and grading standards that learners must observe at all times. In turn, failing to meet specific requirements may lead to low grades for these papers. Hence, basic steps one should observe when writing an essay on “Death Penalty” are:

  • Understand Assignment Requirements: Ensure you know a “Death Penalty” essay’s length, format, and a specific focus or questions you need to address.
  • Choose a Clear Thesis Statement: Decide your main argument or stance on this penalty issue to guide an entire direction for writing your paper.
  • Conduct Thorough Research: Gather credible sources, including scholarly articles, books, and case studies, to support your persuasive arguments.
  • Create an Outline:  Organize your essay structure and divide it into sections, such as introduction, background, arguments, analysis, and conclusion.
  • Write an Introduction: Introduce a chosen topic, provide context, and present your thesis statement clearly.
  • Develop Body Sections: Present your persuasive arguments, counterarguments, and evidence in separate paragraphs or sections, ensuring each point is well-supported in writing.
  • Include Case Studies or Examples: Use specific cases or examples to illustrate your points and make your argument more compelling.
  • Analyze and Synthesize Information: Critically analyze the information and show how different perspectives connect to your persuasive thesis.
  • Write a Conclusion: Summarize your main points, restate a central thesis in light of the evidence, and provide a final thought or call to action.
  • Revise and Edit: Review your “Death Penalty” essay for writing clarity, persuasive coherence, and logical flow, correcting any grammatical errors and ensuring proper citation of sources.

Argumentative Essay Format

To start an argumentative essay on a “Death Penalty” topic, people begin with a hook that highlights a controversy or significance of an issue, followed by a brief background and a clear thesis statement that outlines their position. Basically, one should rely on extensive research when writing an argumentative or persuasive essay on this “Capital Punishment” topic. For example, argumentative or persuasive papers require students to give different perspectives on an issue (Koons, 2021). In writing, learners must rely on extensive research to understand their topics and present viable arguments. Further on, this approach enables authors to make claims that support a thesis statement, counterarguments that oppose a central claim, and refutations. In turn, this strategy allows an argumentative essay to meet the necessary criteria for persuading and convincing readers to accept a particular perspective. Then, quality argumentative and persuasive papers must contain clear and logical writing transitions between body paragraphs (Koons, 2021). In particular, authors must ensure an essay on “Legalized Execution” contains a unique flow of ideas between an introduction, body, and conclusion. Besides, transitions act as words that ensure a logical progression of thoughts in a paragraph. Therefore, to write a good argumentative essay on a “Death Penalty” topic, people develop a clear thesis, present balanced arguments both for and against this practice, support each point with credible evidence, and conclude by reinforcing their position.

Exploratory Essay Format

To start an exploratory essay on a “Death Penalty” topic, people begin by introducing a topic’s complexity and outlining various perspectives they will examine throughout their papers. Basically, exploratory papers on this “Capital Punishment” topic allow authors to find out about a problem and develop preliminary conclusions on potential solutions. For example, quality exploratory essays represent an author’s perspective of a writing and thinking process (Jones, 2024). In writing, an exploratory essay describes “when,” “how,” and “why” a person completes specific types of research. Besides, an exploratory paper should identify a problem and possible causes and solutions readers may establish. In writing, prudent people give a reflection of how credible sources analyzed helped them to develop different thoughts about a study problem (Jones, 2024). Besides, suitable reflections may indicate how individuals fell short of expectations, which led to new research directions. Hence, to write a good exploratory essay on a “Death Penalty” topic, people investigate multiple perspectives on a chosen issue, present the evidence and reasoning behind each viewpoint, and reflect on a complexity of a hot debate without taking a definitive stance.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Format

To start a rhetorical analysis essay on a “Death Penalty” topic, people begin by introducing a chosen text or speech they will analyze, briefly describing its context, and identifying key rhetorical devices an author uses to convey a central message. Basically, rhetorical analysis papers on this “Capital Punishment” topic allow authors to show how a chosen issue appeals to readers. In writing, a suitable rhetorical analysis paper must show how a topic appeals to logic, emotions, and credibility (Rogers, 2024). As such, writers must present information that influences reader’s thoughts. Then, learners must examine their topics in greater detail and prove their perspectives by using rhetorical devices. Besides, a rhetorical analysis essay analyzes a specific source and examines its effectiveness in communicating an intended message. Thus, to write a good rhetorical analysis essay on a “Death Penalty” topic, people examine how different authors or speakers use rhetorical devices, strategies, or appeals, covering ethos, pathos, and logos, to persuade their audience about moral, legal, or social aspects of capital punishment.

Structures

Students have to follow a specific essay structure when preparing an essay on “Death Penalty.” For example, argumentative, explanatory, and rhetorical analysis formats follow different writing structures (Rogers, 2024). Hence, an essay outline for these writing formats is:

Argumentative Essay Outline

Topic: Death Penalty

A student must follow a well-organized outline for writing an argumentative essay on “Death Penalty” to score higher grades.

I. Introduction

A. A catchphrase that makes an opening paragraph interesting. Basically, a first sentence must draw readers into an argumentative or persuasive essay.
B. A few sentences that provide background information on a persuasive argument being discussed.
C. A persuasive thesis statement that presents a main claim for a paper.

II. Body Paragraphs

A. Background Paragraph

  • This writing paragraph should lay a foundation for providing an intended argument.
  • One should include a summary of a chosen topic, definitions of terms, and an explanation of leading theories.

B. Supporting Paragraph – This paragraph should support an argumentative thesis statement. One should include:

  • A topic sentence that responds to a central claim made in an introduction paragraph.
  • Evidence that supports this central claim. In practice, the evidence may contain reasons, examples, facts, statistics, and quotations. Moreover, writers should provide an in-text citation to support the evidence presented.
  • Students must include an accurate explanation of the evidence. In writing, suitable explanations explain how an intended audience should read and interpret the evidence provided in a text. Besides, an opinion-based explanation provided should prove a person’s point.
  • This body paragraph should end with a concluding sentence that reasserts a topic sentence provided.

C. Opposing Paragraph – It is a counterargument paragraph that anticipates a reader’s opposition. Basically, authors should sound objective and reasonable when writing this paragraph. Hence, some of the elements one should include are:

  • A topic sentence should state a possible counterargument that readers might pose against a thesis statement.
  • People need to include objective evidence to support counterarguments.
  • Explanations should provide reasonable and justifiable explanations that may help to understand this persuasive counterargument.
  • This body paragraph should end with a sentence that reasserts a persuasive counterargument.

D. Refutation Paragraph – This writing paragraph reveals a specific weakness of a persuasive counterargument. Hence, some of the factors one should consider when refuting a persuasive counterargument are:

  • A topic sentence states a specific weakness of a persuasive counterargument.
  • The evidence presented should prove why this persuasive counterargument appears weak.
  • Explanations should prove why a central argument holds when compared to a counterclaim.
  • A concluding sentence reasserts an essay’s central argument.

III. Conclusion

A conclusion usually sums up main writing points discussed in an argumentative essay on “Death Penalty.” Hence, some of the points one should consider are:

  • One should restate a paper’s overall claim and relevant supporting evidence.
  • A conclusion paragraph should reflect a thoughtful and analytical understanding of a topic.
  • A concluding section should not contain new evidence.

Important Points to Note:

Students should not limit an argumentative essay on “Death Penalty” to five paragraphs only. For example, a thesis statement should guide a specific length of an argumentative essay that one must write (Koons, 2021). Basically, a good essay on “Capital Punishment” may have several supporting and counterargument paragraphs. As such, the primary goal is to provide an exhaustive explanation of a main topic. In writing, one may also combine introduction and background information paragraphs. Besides, writers may decide to combine a counterargument and a refutation into one paragraph.

Exploratory Essay Outline and Template

Topic: Death Penalty

I. Introduction

A. An introduction should set a unique context for readers to understand a main topic. In this case, students should begin writing an exploratory essay on “Death Penalty” with a paragraph that gives the general background information. Besides, one should set up key ideas discussed throughout a paper.
B. An opening section should reveal an actual importance of a topic under evaluation. Basically, the presented details should motivate a target audience to read further. In writing, people should ensure an introduction creates a unique interest in reading a paper.
C. An introductory paragraph of an exploratory essay on “Death Penalty” should state a specific question or topic of exploration. In writing, one should use one or several sentences that give more information about intended goals. Besides, readers should find out “why” and “how” authors intend to explore it.

II. Body Paragraphs

A. A body section should have different paragraphs that focus on supporting a central claim of an argument. 
B. Each paragraph should give a detailed explanation of a source used. In writing, people should include a source’s information and explain why it sounds essential.
C. Each body paragraph should give a person’s reflection on a source and its information. 

III. Conclusion

A. A conclusion should give a general overview of critical concepts discussed.
B. Students should provide information that ties up loose ends. In writing, one should restate a main question and emphasize important points left out in body paragraphs.

Important Points to Note:

Learners should vary a body paragraph’s structure to enhance a mode of communication and main ideas. For example, writers should intend to communicate a main message instead of following a structure discussed previously strictly (Jones, 2024). Hence, they can change their body paragraphs in a way they want.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline and Template

Topic: Death Penalty

I. Introduction

A. Learners should identify an author of a source under analysis. In writing, students should use a positive phrase to establish an author’s reliability and expertise. Then, other essential details include a source’s title and a suitable rhetorical verb. Moreover, some of the unique verbs include “assert,” “argue,” “suggest,” “imply,” and “claim.” Finally, a first sentence should end with a “that” clause, which asserts its thesis statement. 
B. Writers should explain how an author develops or supports a thesis. Basically, this explanation should follow a chronological order to enhance an essay’s quality.
C. Students should include a statement that shows an author’s purpose for writing, followed by an “in order” phrase.
D. Scholars should describe an apparent relationship that a source’s author establishes with targeted readers.
E. A last sentence in an introduction paragraph contains an author’s central claim or thesis statement.

II. Body Paragraphs

A. Topic sentence – A first sentence in a paragraph contains claims about strategies that address its purpose or prompt.
B. Specific examples and supporting ideas – Students provide explicit textual support that supports their claims. In writing, they should discuss their examples thoroughly while providing supporting details. 
C. Discussion – Learners should discuss how provided examples support a central idea.
D. Concluding sentence – Students need to end each paragraph with a statement that sums up a single paragraph and connects an example to an introduction’s claim. 

III. Conclusion

A. Restating a thesis statement – Scholars must restate a thesis statement and dig deeper into a text’s overall intended meaning. Basically, this writing approach must help scholars to develop a deeper understanding than they establish in an opening paragraph.
B. Reflection – Learners should reflect on examples and main ideas discussed in an essay’s body. In turn, this aspect should state an actual meaning of primary persuasive strategies utilized in a source analyzed.
C. Effectiveness – People should state if persuasive strategies used effectively communicated an intended message.
D. Closing thoughts – Students should include final remarks that show a primary purpose of writing about a source under analysis.

Important Points to Note:

Learners should ensure rhetorical analysis papers show a source’s effectiveness in explaining a main argument. In writing, one should provide a seamless transition of ideas presented in a rhetorical analysis essay on “Death Penalty.” Moreover, topic sentences in second and subsequent body paragraphs should contain a transitioning statement (Rogers, 2024). In turn, this writing method helps to communicate an intended message without creating avoidable obstructions to readers.

Strategies on How to Improve

Students focus on achieving better grades in their studies. In principle, scholars must ensure their argumentative, exploratory, or rhetorical analysis essays on “Death Penalty” meet the necessary quality and set writing requirements. However, many learners fail to achieve this objective due to various flaws (Koons, 2021). Therefore, some of the writing strategies people should use to improve an overall quality of their essays are:

Step 1: Proofreading

Learners must proofread their works to ensure their papers meet the necessary writing quality. For example, the primary purpose of proofreading an essay is to remove spelling mistakes, typos, and grammatical errors that may affect an essay’s readability levels (Rogers, 2024). Then, prudent students request their peers to read through their works to provide suitable critiques. In turn, this strategy allows authors to identify all the writing mechanisms that may distort an intended meaning. Besides, they should make necessary writing corrections and revisions to ensure their essays on “Death Penalty” meet the necessary quality.

Step 2: Use of Terminologies

Students should use specific terms effectively when writing argumentative, exploratory, and rhetorical analysis essays on a “Capital Punishment” topic. In most cases, an effective use of the necessary writing terms enhances one’s ability to communicate an intended message with clarity (Jones, 2024). Hence, some of the terms one should consider when preparing an essay on “Death Penalty” are:

  • Analyze – One should use this term when referring to an entire process of breaking an issue into fundamental parts using supporting arguments. In writing, this term applies when scholars refer to the evidence provided to support or oppose a main claim.
  • Assess – The term “assess” refers to a process of evaluating an extent to which something remains valid. In this case, one should persuade readers by providing relevant citations from reliable sources. Besides, suitable assessments must end with a clear statement that shows how one agrees or opposes an original claim.
  • Clarify – Students should use the term “clarify” when making a concept clearer. In writing, the term “clarify” alludes to a process of explaining a complicated process, concept, theory, or connection between two variables or factors. However, failing to establish necessary explanations may lower one’s ability to communicate an intended message.
  • Elaborate – The term “elaborate” refers to a process of providing more details or information.
  • Evaluate – The term “evaluate” refers to a process of appraising a statement to establish an intended meaning. 

Step 3: Making an Outline Before Writing

Learners should create an outline before writing an actual essay. Unfortunately, many students make mistakes by writing their essays without planning or organizing ideas first (Rogers, 2024). Basically, such mistakes lead to writing weaker argumentative essays on “Death Penalty” that fail to achieve a seamless flow of main ideas. In writing, an outline helps authors to organize all the relevant ideas in chronological order. Then, prudent scholars must create an outline and make necessary revisions to ensure they capture all the essential ideas (Rogers, 2024). In turn, an entire process of revising an essay outline should involve an addition of more substantial evidence, a removal of weaker sources, and an inclusion of more explicit concepts that relate to a chosen issue for writing. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a “Death Penalty” essay are:

  • A death penalty practice, also known as capital punishment, remains one of the most debatable and controversial topics in modern society.
  • Throughout history, societies have grappled with a question of whether a state should have a power to take a life as a form of punishment.
  • As debates over human rights and justice intensify, a particular use of a legalized execution sentence has become increasingly scrutinized.
  • In an ongoing discourse on criminal justice, a death penalty practice stands at the crossroads of law, morality, and public opinion.
  • A question of whether a capital punishment activity serves as a deterrent or a violation of human rights continues to divide scholars and policymakers alike.
  • Capital punishment, a practice dating back to ancient civilizations, is now at the center of a global debate on ethics and legality.
  • A legalized execution practice is not merely a legal issue but a deeply moral question that challenges our notions of justice and humanity.
  • While some people argue that a capital punishment sentence is a necessary tool for justice, others believe it is an inhumane practice that should be abolished.
  • In a face of rising concerns about wrongful convictions, a legalized execution’s place in a modern legal system is increasingly questioned.
  • A current death penalty’s role in a modern justice system raises critical questions about fairness, retribution, and a value of human life.

Step 4: Following a Sandwich Rule

All body paragraphs of argumentative, exploratory, or rhetorical analysis essays on “Death Penalty” and their writing must follow a sandwich rule. For example, one should provide a topic sentence, evidence, relevant explanation, and concluding sentences in each paragraph (Koons, 2021). Firstly, a topic sentence should connect to a thesis statement presented in an introduction. Then, students should use relevant and robust evidence to support topic sentences. In writing, some of the acceptable forms of evidence include examples, illustrations, and opinions (Koons, 2021). Besides, one should cite any evidence to enhance essay’s credibility levels. After that, suitable explanations enable readers to develop a better understanding of connections between topic sentences and supporting evidence. Finally, a last sentence in a paragraph should sum up all the writing ideas presented in a given section.

Examples

Argumentative Essay on “Death Penalty”

Introduction

A death penalty issue remains a contested topic among scholars in the twenty-first century. Basically, legal experts give moral justification that supports an existence of legalized execution. However, people who advocate for human rights maintain that capital punishment lacks moral justification. Although scholars disagree on a death penalty’s legality, a current justice system provides necessary protocols to avoid convicted criminals’ inexcusable execution.

Body Paragraphs

Argument

A modern justice system of the United States provides necessary protocols to ensure that legalized execution promotes justice. For example, a current criminal justice system requires judges to sentence convicts found guilty of first-degree murder to a death sentence (Garrett & Kovarsky, 2018). In this case, the ruling in first-degree murder relies on objective evidence and a justifiable prosecution process. Besides, a convicted individual receives an opportunity to appeal. Hence, people charged with first-degree murder receive a death penalty after going through a fair legal process.

Counterargument

On the other hand, some people state that a death penalty practice does not meet moral justification. Basically, contenders maintain that executing a first-degree murderer fails to give a person a chance to change (Bows & Herring, 2020). Further on, capital punishment violates a convict’s fundamental right to life. However, such claims fail to consider that people charged with first-degree murder violated their fundamental rights. In turn, sentencing such people to death eliminates possible threats to public lives.

Conclusion

Though scholars disagree on a legality of a death penalty practice, criminal justice provides convicts with a chance to receive a fair hearing. In this case, a current justice system provides necessary protocols to avoid inexcusable execution. Thus, a counterargument presented fails to consider that first-degree murderers violate other people’s fundamental right to life. 

List of References

Bows, H., & Herring, J. (2020). Getting away with murder? A review of the ‘Rough Sex Defence.’ The Journal of Criminal Law, 84(6), 525–538. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022018320936777

Garrett, B., & Kovarsky, L. (2018). The death penalty. Foundation Press.

Defining Features

A second paragraph in writing an essay provided above contains a main persuasive claim. However, a third paragraph contains a counterargument and necessary refutations. Finally, a conclusion sums up main points presented in an argumentative essay on “Death Penalty.” In turn, this paper is only a writing example and does not force anyone to consider any position.

Exploratory Essay on “Death Penalty”

Introduction

Many scholars disagree on the most effective strategies that a modern criminal justice system should use to promote justice for first-degree murder victims. Different knowledge levels and personal interests influence such disagreements. Findings from recent research by Garrett and Kovarsky prove that creating awareness about capital punishment can reduce disagreements on an overall death penalty’s effectiveness.

Body Paragraph

The book “The Death Penalty” shows that disagreements about capital punishment’s legality and effectiveness arise due to various ignorance levels. For example, non-lawyer fails to access legal documents about legalized execution (Garrett & Kovarsky, 2018). In turn, this problem leads to higher ignorance levels, where scholars with inadequate knowledge of legal matters oppose capital punishment’s effectiveness. Therefore, the government can deal with such challenges by creating awareness about capital punishment and its purpose in the twenty-first century.

Conclusion

Though many experts oppose a legality and effectiveness of a death penalty, ignorance in legal matters remains a primary cause. In this case, non-lawyer scholars tend to oppose an application of capital punishment in promoting justice. Thus, creating public awareness can lead to a sustainable solution to the problem.  

Reference

Garrett, B., & Kovarsky, L. (2018). The death penalty. Foundation Press.

Defining Features

This example of writing an exploratory essay on “Death Penalty” consists of three paragraphs. However, a writing length of such a paper may be higher by considering necessary points needed to be discussed in a paper. Hence, writers may use as many paragraphs as they need to explore their topics.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay on “Death Penalty”

Introduction

The book “The Death Penalty,” authored by Garrett and Kovarsky, provides suitable explanations on capital punishment’s effectiveness in promoting justice. In particular, the authors use logos and pathos appeals to provide suitable explanations. Because Garrett and Kovarsky present details that appeal to readers’ reasoning and emotional senses, they justify a legality of using a death penalty sentence for first-degree murders. 

Body Paragraph

Garrett and Kovarsky rely on pathos and logos appeals to justify applying a death sentence in the United States. According to Garrett and Kovarsky (2018), criminal justice requires first-degree murderers to receive a death penalty sentence for violating a victim’s right to life. Basically, this statement appeals to reader’s emotions because it brings into context the rights of individuals killed in cold blood. In turn, Garrett and Kovarsky (2018) maintain that people convicted with legalized execution receive an opportunity to make their appeals before execution. Moreover, such claims appeal to a reader’s logic because all criminals have a chance to express themselves and seek intervention when they feel that a particular court violated their rights. Hence, Garrett and Kovarsky rely on healthy emotional and logical appeals to justify using a death penalty practice.

Conclusion

Though many thinkers disagree on capital punishment’s effectiveness, Garrett and Kovarsky use strong emotional and logical appeals to prove otherwise. In turn, these two authors present details that appeal to readers’ rational and emotional senses to justify a legitimacy of using a death penalty sentence for first-degree murders. As a result, a strategy motivates people to change their attitude toward a topic.

Reference

Garrett, B., & Kovarsky, L. (2018). The death penalty. Foundation Press.

Defining Features

A second paragraph shows a particular use of pathos and logos in a source identified. In writing, this body paragraph provides an accurate explanation of how two authors used rhetorical aspects to communicate a main idea. Besides, writing a given section relies on sensible evidence. In turn, a specific number of body paragraphs can be more than one, and it depends on person’s needs.

What to Include

ElementDescription
Historical BackgroundOverview of a whole history and evolution of a death penalty practice, including key milestones and changes.
Legal FrameworkDiscussion of laws, legal precedents, and significant court rulings related to a capital punishment.
Ethical ConsiderationsExploration of moral arguments for and against a death penalty, including discussions on justice, retribution, and human rights.
Statistical DataPresentation of relevant statistics, such as execution rates, crime rates, and public opinion polls.
Case StudiesAnalysis of specific cases where such a penalty rule was applied, highlighting key issues or controversies.
International PerspectivesComparison of how different countries or regions approach this penalty practice, including abolitionist vs. retentionist states.
“For” ArgumentsExploration of primary arguments opposing a capital punishment, including a risk of wrongful execution, human rights concerns, and a cost.
“Against” ArgumentsExploration of primary arguments opposing capital punishment, including a risk of wrongful execution, human rights concerns, and a cost.
AlternativesDiscussion of other forms of punishment, such as life imprisonment without parole, and their potential effectiveness.
Impact on SocietyAnalysis of how a death penalty phenomenon affects society, including its social, economic, and psychological impacts on various stakeholders.

Common Mistakes

  • Lack of an Argumentative Thesis: Failing to establish a clear position or write a strong argumentative statement can lead to a disjointed and unfocused “Death Penalty” essay.
  • Insufficient Research: Not using credible and diverse sources can weaken an argument and reduce a paper’s overall credibility.
  • Ignoring Counterarguments: Failing to address opposing viewpoints in writing makes a whole composition appear one-sided and less persuasive.
  • Overly Emotional Language: Using overly emotional or biased language can undermine an objectivity and professionalism of writing.
  • Poor Structure and Organization: A disorganized composition with no logical flow can confuse readers and obscure main points.
  • Neglecting Legal and Ethical Aspects: Overlooking legal and ethical dimensions of a capital punishment problem can result in a vague analysis.
  • Using Outdated or Irrelevant Examples: Relying on outdated or irrelevant case studies can weaken an entire argument and writing and fail to engage readers.
  • Generalizing or Making Assumptions: Generalizations and assumptions without evidence can lead to weak arguments and reduce a paper’s effectiveness and writing.
  • Inadequate Analysis of Sources: Simply summarizing sources instead of critically analyzing them can result in a lack of depth in a composition.
  • Poor Citation and Referencing: Incorrect or inconsistent citations of credible sources can lead to plagiarism cases and weaken a “Death Penalty” essay’s academic integrity.

Summing Up

A topic of “Death Penalty” obligates one to give an evaluation of existing facts and provide convincing opinions that allow target readers to develop a better comprehension. In this case, one may opt to write argumentative, exploratory, and rhetorical analysis essays on a “Capital Punishment” topic. However, each of these types of essays follows different writing guidelines. Hence, some of the points one should remember are:

  • Argumentative essays on “Death Penalty” must present viable persuasive claims, counterarguments, and relevant refutations.
  • Exploratory essays on “Death Penalty” must identify an existing problem and propose a viable solution.
  • Rhetorical analysis essays on “Death Penalty” must reveal a particular use of pathos, logos, and ethos.  

References

Dudai, R. (2023). Dead or alive? Reassessing the health of the death penalty and the prospects of global abolition. Theoretical Criminology, 28(2), 139–156. https://doi.org/10.1177/13624806231187376

Jones, A. (2024). Exploratory writing everyday magic for life and work. Practical Inspiration Publishing.

Jouet, M. (2023). Death penalty abolitionism from the enlightenment to modernity. The American Journal of Comparative Law, 71(1), 46–97. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcl/avad011

Koons, M. (2021). Writing an argumentative essay: The complete introductory guide to writing an argumentative essay for beginner students. Write Illusion LLC.

Rogers, D. (2024). Writing better essays: A rhetorical guide to writing and revision. Equinox Publishing Ltd.

Steiker, C. S., & Steiker, J. M. (2020). The rise, fall, and afterlife of the death penalty in the United States. Annual Review of Criminology, 3(1), 299–315. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-criminol-011518-024721

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