Your task: Write an argumentative essay in the form of a newspaper op-ed piece concerning some issue relating to political processes and institutions. You may choose to focus on a recent issue, historical developments, or issues we have covered in class. Take a position. Do not just repeat what we said previously in class. What is important is not which side you take, but the arguments you develop in support of your position. Model: As a basic model, the newspaper op-ed piece has the following parts: (A.) news hook, (B.) thesis, (C.) arguments — usually three, (D.) qualification (rebuttal of a strong opposing argument), and (E.) conclusion. You should follow that model. The only deviation permitted will be in the number of arguments. For example, you may want to have two arguments that are expanded in depth, or five arguments that rebut every conceivable argument against your position. Check the New York Times, Washington Post, Seattle Times, or any other newspaper