Using social media improves communication skills. Students will write a four page researched essay that contains a minimum of six sources. The sources must be from reputable journals/magazines/newspapers/news broadcasts/etc. Internet versions of journals, newspapers, etc. are acceptable. Wikipedia is not allowed as a source. However, sources found in the bibliographies of Wikipedia articles may be used if they are credible. The essay should be written with at least eight paragraphs. The essay should contain a thesis statement in the first paragraph, and the thesis statement should present a proof synopsis explaining the reasons why the primary claim (thesis claim) is true. DETAILS: Students should write a paper that argues for a cause and effect relationship where some topic/problem/issue is concerned. The cause(s) and effect(s) can be positive or negative in nature. Here is an example: the cause of overpopulation and environmental degradation on Mars is X. Or: the causes of overpopulation and environmental degradation on Mars are X, Y, and Z. In this case, you would be noting an effect or effects—overpopulation and environmental degradation on Mars, and making an argument that the cause(s) are _____. Another possibility is this: the effect of implementing a ban on dinosaur ownership will be X. Or: the effects of implementing a ban on dinosaur ownership will be X, Y, and Z. In this case, you would be looking at the cause—implementation of a dinosaur ownership ban, and making an argument that the effect(s) are______. Note: Students should focus on either current causes and effects (present tense) or future causes and effects (future tense). Do not write about past cause and effect relationships unless they are germane to current causes and effects and are still ongoing. Students must demonstrate a reasonable knowledge of their topic and the issues surrounding it, including historical context of the issue. Each paper must address multiple perspectives in some way, either in discussion of the topic or in rebutting opponents’ counterarguments. A works cited page must be included with the final draft of the paper. MLA format should be followed, including the use of Times New Roman, 12 point type, double spacing, parenthetical citations, identifying tags, etc. A scoring rubric will be provided and will include the manner in which points will be awarded to the paper.