Well! You've got a strong topic, now you just need to get your template down. It's an argumentative essay, so you're going to want an attention-grabbing introduction with your thesis statement. You're going to want body paragraphs that explain both sides of the debate, and then try to convince the reader that your side (the federal gov side) is the best position to take. Wrap it up with a conclusion and voila!
One of your points may be that federal power covers all 50 states, meanwhile state gun laws only govern the individual state. Strict gun laws in Illinois don't matter if it's only a two hour drive to Indiana where they have much looser laws.
This is true. Metaphors do not represent literal/denotative meaning and require some connotation to be involved.
By talking about one of the culinary eccentricities of her culture Sotomayor wants draw attention to her rich culture and traditions in regards to food in particular. So the correct option is:
Sotomayor brings the audience's attention to the uniqueness of her culture.
