Issue Memo Assignment #6
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Reading:
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| You should read the following article on
reserve in the library and come to class prepared to discuss it. The
reading will also help you prepare the written assignment described
below. Other class readings, videos, handouts, and web sites may
also be of use in preparing your written assignment. |
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 | Issue Memo Assignment #6: "Issue 15: Nuclear Waste: Should the United
States Continue to Focus Plans for Permanent Nuclear Waste Disposal Exclusively at Yucca
Mountain?" (On reserve) |
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Directions:
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| Imagine
that you are a concerned resident of Inyo County who has formed a local
interest group that is against nuclear waste disposal at Yucca Mountain.
You contend that Nevada is one of the nation’s fastest growing
states and has the economic base to prove it.
In addition to commercial and residential growth you argue that the
surrounding area is home to many forms of wildlife and has long been
overlooked.
Regardless of past nuclear activity, resource management should be
assessed as well as the future growth of surrounding communities. Write a
letter to the editor (i.e., opinion editorial) stating your rebuttal to
the proposal. |
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Format of the Written Assignment
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| The format of
this assignment will be a letter to the editor or an "op-ed" (opinion editorial) article.
Its length is limited to 750 words (most word processing programs have a
word count function), which is about the maximum length of an editorial in
a local or national newspaper.. See one of the many op-ed handouts over the
course of the semester for guidance on what styles are appropriate.
To receive an "A", it is expected that your editorial will be
similar in style, substance, and quality to submit to a local paper for
publication. The reason for using this format is that letters to the
editor are one of the common ways citizens can build
public support, generate public opposition, otherwise try to influence
public policy is by writing letters to the editor. |
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Grading
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| Your memo should answer the question posed and be argumentative in nature.
There is no one "right" answer. Instead, you will be graded on the
strength and organization of your arguments as well as the quality of your writing.
You may introduce any facts and evidence you wish to support your arguments. If
you are unfamiliar with how to write a memo please arrange to see me or my
graduate assistant during office hours for assistance. |
