Linked Assignment 4: Final Research Paper
Minimum length: 2400-3000 words (8-10 pages)
Grade: 100 points, worth 30% of your course grade
Over the past several weeks, you have worked to identify and narrow a topic, to study the conversations occurring in and around that topic, and to articulate your position and alternative positions on that topic. Now it is time to assemble your knowledge in a final research paper.
This final research paper is not simply a compilation of the first three papers. While you may include any of the work you have previously done this semester, you should do so purposefully.
That means using only information that helps you to effectively make your overall argument.
The object of this assignment is to present a central argument, supported by logic and evidence, with the goal of persuading your reader. There are many ways to design such an argument-to arrange your material–but your paper should include the following components:
.
An introduction with a clear thesis statement that presents the topic, engages the reader, and submits a specific and arguable thesis.
- History or context critical to understanding the argument at hand.
- Definitions of any significant terms.
- Well-developed claims in support of the thesis. These claims might take various forms, such as causes, eftects, or reasons, and should be constructed by synthesizing logic and source material.
- Acknowledgment of counterarguments, along with credible refutation or concession as applicable.
- A conclusion that reminds your reader of the importance of your position, reviews the most persuasive points, and raises questions for further discussion.
You must integrate between eight and ten credible and relevant sources into the paper using the standards of evaluation we have used throughout the semester. Rather than noting what various sources say, you should smoothly integrate sources with points you are making within the paper.
Aspire to demonstrate your comprehension of the material you use from each source and to use that material persuasively.
In addition to using typical academic sources, such as academic books, peer-reviewed articles, news reports, surveys, and interviews, you may also employ relevant personal experience in support of your points. When invoking your experience, remember to avoid unfounded assumptions and fallacies, most notably hasty generalizations (if it’s true in this small instance, it must be true on the whole).
This paper should contain several elements.
- A well-designed title.
- Developed, coherent, unified paragraphs featuring topic sentences and transitions.
- Synthesized evidence from credible sources.
- A clear, sustained voice, one that uses but is not lost among the sources.
- Page numbers.
- Proper citations and a works cited list.
Evidence of careful proofreading.
This paper is not only the culmination of the skills you have learned this semester; it is also preparation for future academic work.