Legislative branch take home assessment (100 points)
essential question: should congress be subject to term limits
persuasive essay prompt: the potential for a new constitutional amendment asking for the
establishment of congressional term limits has gained traction. you, as an active and informed citizen,
are eager to provide your representative with your opinion on the matter.
you will write a letter to your house representative in order to convince them to either vote for or
against the prospective amendment in an upcoming floor vote.
your letter must address at least three of the following ideas in detail:
historical context
intention of the framers derived from the articles of confederation, the constitution,
federalist papers/ratification debates, letters to each other, etc.
impact on elections and voter turnout
continuity of government
incumbency and experience, stability of the system
impact on the legislative process and lawmaking
precedent and impact of the 22 nd amendment
american people’s current view on the issue
your letter should be in five paragraph form with at least three supporting body paragraphs. although
you are writing in the first person, you must include an introduction with thesis, as well as a conclusion.
your persuasive letter must be detailed, including analysis of the issues you choose to address with
direct quotes and evidence to support your argument.
you will be evaluated on:
· how well you use logic and evidence to support an argument
· how well you demonstrate a thorough understanding of the issue
· how clearly you articulate your position
· the credibility of your sources