1. What is the definition of a dangerous offender? We know that even if Walsh isn't convicted as a "Dangerous Offender" he will likely (and was) sent to jail for manslaughter - so why was it that people desperately wanted him to be labelled a "dangerous offender" what makes this label worse than having a criminal record for manslaughter?
- What you should ensure you look at here is to what extent should the government (in this case represented by the judicial system) impede individual rights (Walsh's rights to privacy) to ensure security of the common good
- If Walsh has a dangerous offender tag to his name, then the community that he moves to is forewarned and he will be monitored closely after release - this will help ensure the security of those around him at the cost of his privacy. Sex offenders, rapists and murderers are usually convicted as dangerous offenders but the goal is to ensure collective security and maintain the common good. Is this not similar to the other case studies that we have been investigating - No-Fly List, Extraordinary Rendition etc?
2. This is a Social Studies essay so it makes sense the marker is looking for social terms and definitions (Charter of Rights and Freedoms, individual rights, common good etc.). It is important that every statement you make you stop, re-read it and then decide how you are going to PROVE what you have just said. If keywords are used, stop and define them.
3. You also need support for what you are saying - this will turn your paper from a rant, to an organized, formal piece of writing with a purpose.
4. Write with purpose - you want to write in a way that your reader can not argue against your point of view. Imagine you are trying to extend your curfew or get a new cell phone - if you approach your parents with an argument that has holes, you won't get your way. In this case, if the reader is able to find holes in your paper, you haven't done your job proving your point.
5. Organization is key. Know what you want your main arguments to be and ensure that they come across very clearly in each of your body paragraphs. The first sentence in each of you body paragraphs should state the main point of that paragraph (think of it as a "paragraph thesis"). This keeps you as a writer organized as well.
6. ALWAYS go back to the question - Your mission is to answer a question. Always refer back to it to keep your writing in check... it is easy to stray from the main point. Stay focused!
Please come and see me at any point if you would like to discuss your essay. It is very effective to talk about your essay as you are learning how to write and effective one!
Interested in the result of Walsh's trial? Click here
