Research Paper

Description:

In various classes and class levels you might be asked to produce a research paper. This might be a paper exploring a topic of your own choosing (related to the issues of the course) or your professor might offer a list of possible topics.

The research paper could be descriptive, for example a case study of a political system of a foreign country for an introductory comparative class. But most research papers are analytical in which you are developing a research question or set of questions to guide your inquiry.

Purpose:

To develop a topic and present it in a comprehensive manner.

How to Write It:

For a specific research paper you need to follow the guidelines set out by your professor. Here are some general hints and recommendations for successfully negotiating the demands of a research paper:

· Give yourself plenty of time between designing the topic and the

deadline for the polished draft.

· Develop your topic from questions that interest you - you will have to

spend considerable time dealing with the topic you end up choosing.

· Work on your research skills - ask for help if you are not sure what,

where, and how.

· Work through this assignment with the various steps in mind: Asking questions - developing topic - developing outline - surveying literature - reevaluate topic and outline - consulting with your professor - first draft - revisions - cleaning up the final draft.

· Keep in contact with your professor throughout the process (some will require that you turn in topic, literature review, outline of paper, drafts).

· Use your colleagues in class or friends as peer reviewer.

· Make sure you reference whenever you use other author's ideas, concepts, or quotes.

Evaluation Criteria:

1. Well developed topic.

2. Well researched - good use of sources.

3. Well referenced following appropriate form

4. Well structured and well written.