A 6-8 page research paper where you will write about a topic that you brainstorm throughout the course of the semester. The research paper will include outside sources and you can include images if applicable. The paper will adhere to MLA style.
Your essay should:
Introduce your topic and give background information to show the significance of the subject or why the topic is discussed in the first place.
Include a thesis statement that gives readers an overview of where your paper is heading.
Present research that proves/answers the research questions that you have going into the research paper.
Build a case for your topic in a logical order.
Utilize proper citations and introduce, cite, and explain the quotations.
Conclude by opening up to the bigger conversation. What should your audience take away from your research paper? Are there any gaps in the research? What research still needs to be done?
Ensure that you are citing sources properly and including in-text citations throughout your essay along with including a Works Cited page. You may write in the first person.
The in-class activities will help you draft your research paper. Examples and resources will also be posted on D2L.
Purpose:
The purpose of a research paper is to help you become familiar with researching information and analyzing the research that you find throughout the writing process. A research paper will also prepare you to become familiar with a semester long project as all of the major assignments we will do in the course lead up to the research paper. You will walk away understanding how to revise, research, cite, and write a longer piece that you will feel proud of by the end of the semester.
Required Skills & Knowledge:
The purpose of this assignment is to help you:
Apply your knowledge of research to prove/answer your research questions
Understand how to revise your content after the first draft
Craft paragraphs that are precise in language and logical in order
Integrate sources that support your position