Hey there!
Fantastic course choice, by the way
This has been a really good series, next episode is airing tonight, I'll definitely be watching.
I don't know realclearpolitics, but I'm sure it's fabulous! My college has a subscription to
Pre Chewed Politics, and I honestly can't vouch for it enough - it has all the topics, with videos and worksheets for each, plus tons of regularly updated examples, and it makes finding them a breeze.
The White House website is pretty cool too, although there obviously won't be as much analysis as from news websites.
In terms of finding examples, I've ''adopted'' a Representative and a Senator, and I have google alerts on them, plus I've subscribed to their newsletters from their websites. I found out a bit about their background, what bills they've sponsored, and it makes things a bit easier to remember. I tried to choose two who weren't straight white men, and I have one Republican and one Democrat.
On a side note, I find the Constitution topic the hardest, and I found
this the other day - it's the full constitution, searchable, with the clauses highlighted, then a ton of beautifully written explanations with historical context and modern usage and interpretation, it's pretty cool
As far as essay technique goes, here's my master list for the 45 markers:
⓵ Understand the question Sounds stupid, but underline the key words, and work out what it is they're asking you to do. You won't get any marks if you don't answer the question
⓶ Define key terms In your intro, explain what you're talking about. If it's a question on the modern presidency, state what the modern Presidency is - (i.e. since 2000? Obama? Since 2012?)
⓷ Plan your structure Aim for about three to four sides (handwritten)
In your intro (half a side), define your terms, outline where the debate/ controversy is, briefly outline the examples you will go on to give, and you can give an indication of the conclusion you will come to
The write your four main points, half a side each, making sure to fit in with the PEEP structure:
Point - Your main argument
Example - Give a relevant, up to date example
Explain - What does your example signify about the question, how is it significant and/or typical?
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Pinion - Answer the question
⓸ Link your points Make sure your paragraphs follow on from each other well, and signify how important they are within your main argument
⓹ Keep arguments focused End each paragraph by answering the question, and resist the temptation to write down everything you know - it needs to be relevant
⓺ Put down the other side of the argument Acknowledge the other side of the debate, then explain how wrong it is
⓻ Fantastic conclusion Answer the question in the first line, clearly and definitively
In the next five to eight lines, explain why you think so, referring to broad themes and the respective strength of your arguments
Hope this helps
❤