Use this thesis/claim to fill out this outline:

• Claim: I can address the compelling question or prompt by taking a complex position and making a claim/thesis. I can use at least three relevant reasons to support my claim/thesis.
• Evidence: of the problem- and evidence for solution
• Reasoning: Action Plan for helping solve the problem: Your reasoning and arguing for a proposed solution. Also include evidence in support of your argument/ reasons.
• Step 1-Identify a problem in your community.
• Why is it a problem, whom does it affect?
Provide information about your community
• Step 2- Provide background information
• What caused the problem?
• Explain consequences of the problem if it is not addressed.
• State why there is a community obligation (civic responsibility) to remedy the problem
• Use what you have learned about guaranteed rights and civil liberties to make your claim
• Step 3- Write down pros and cons of your solution. Explain what change will occur if the solution is implemented
• Talk about the cost and where the money might come from
• What sources of revenue might exist to help pay for your plan if there is a cost?
• Step 4- Map out your strategy
• Who will you present your claim to (city council, mayor, the community public, school board, parks & rec dept, etc)
• What will be most persuasive to people?
• What examples of the problem and solution will be most convincing?
• What evidence will you offer?
• Discuss any opposition to your plan and how to remedy that, what would your counter argument be?
• Step 5- Elaborate on details
What local groups might you seek help from or partner with?
• Besides asking the local government for help- are there other tactics you could use to affect change?
How could media or social media strategy help you raise awareness

Thesis/Claim: The lack of affordable housing in my community is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed in order to ensure the well-being of all residents. By implementing a comprehensive housing plan, we can alleviate the housing crisis, improve living conditions, and promote a stronger sense of community.

Evidence of the problem:

- Homelessness rates have been steadily increasing in our community, indicating a growing lack of affordable housing options.
- Rental prices have skyrocketed in recent years, making it increasingly difficult for low-income families and individuals to find adequate housing.
- The waiting list for subsidized housing has become excessively long, leaving many individuals and families without stable housing.

Reasoning: Action Plan for helping solve the problem:

- Step 1: Identify a problem in your community.
The problem is the lack of affordable housing, which affects individuals and families of all backgrounds and income levels.

- Step 2: Provide background information.
The lack of affordable housing is primarily caused by an imbalance between supply and demand, as well as the increasing cost of living in our community. If this problem is not addressed, it will lead to an increase in homelessness, increased financial strain on families, and a decline in overall community well-being.

- Step 3: Write down pros and cons of your solution.
Pros of the comprehensive housing plan include providing stability and security for individuals and families, reducing homelessness rates, and improving overall living conditions. Cons may include the initial cost of implementing the plan and potential resistance from those opposed to allocating resources for affordable housing.

- Step 4: Map out your strategy.
Present the claim to the city council and the community public, as they have the power to make policy changes and allocate resources. The most persuasive approach would be to highlight the tangible benefits of affordable housing, such as decreased strain on social services and increased economic productivity. Examples of the problem could include testimonies from individuals struggling to find affordable housing, while examples of the solution could include success stories from communities that have implemented similar housing plans. Evidence could include data on homelessness rates, rental prices, and the economic impact of affordable housing.

- Step 5: Elaborate on details.
Local groups such as housing advocacy organizations and non-profit housing developers can provide valuable support and expertise. Besides seeking help from the local government, grassroots tactics such as community organizing and public awareness campaigns can also be used to mobilize public support. Media and social media strategies can help raise awareness by sharing personal stories, statistics, and calls to action.

Overall, by addressing the lack of affordable housing through a comprehensive plan, we can create a more equitable and thriving community for all residents.