<p>I'm taking this as well! We've only taken one (my veteran teacher hates those) but we also analyzed the essays written by other students. The non-formulaic one got the 9 -_- but of course, get to the point and cite your sources. Surprisingly, the ones we thought scored the highest b/c of writing style and whatever else didn't score as high as the 9 for those reasons, altho some got close.</p>
<p>First of all, definitely identify his claim. Make sure you expose the important principle at play, and then put your beliefs on the line. You can use modern examples stemming from 9/11 or Watergate. Play fair in an argument. Admit the strength of the opposition and then fully explain why you disgree. Your form doesn't really matter as long as it is logical and supported. Some people will give up personal liberties for the greater good, some feel that any infringement is too much-your job is drawing the line for your reader (and supporting your convictions).</p>