Format of the brief/memo
Think of it as an informational pamphlet. The information should be laid out clearly and simply. However, you should do more than "cut and paste" from your source. Craft your argument to appeal directly to the Congressperson that you have chosen based on your research.
You do not have to write an essay. You may do so if that is how you feel most comfortable communicating the information, but it is not necessary.
Questions to consider when preparing the memo
What are the interests of the Congressperson concerned?
What are the interests of his constituency?
How is he/she likely to think about the issue before reading the memo?
How do you want him/her to think about the issue after reading the memo? What information can you provide that will be especially convincing?
What information exists that must be argued against? Do not ignore information contrary to your position, you do not have to mention it, but you must defend against it.
What you will turn in:
1. A two page report/memo summarizing the issue, it's current state and the relevant arguments. The memo should include the following:
- a. Thesis statement: Sum up your topic and the position you are taking in one or two sentences.
- b. In-text citations to at least three of your references.
- c. At least one chart/graph/illustration (your own or from one of your sources).
- Each citation should be annotated with a brief summary of the source's content, it's main arguments, and what you found useful about the source for this project (how did the source help you build your argument). It should address all of the principles of evaluation: authority, accuracy, currency, content/coverage, objectivity.
