The research paper will allow you to develop a more complete understanding of the specific topical area that you have chosen. Although the way that you decide to convey the information is up to you, remember that these papers will be graded on content, style, grammar, writing ability, and thoroughness of researchso by following the instruction detailed below you will save yourself a lot of frustration. Please have someone proofread your paper before handing it in. This will save you time and points. This is an upper level college course and you will be expected to write well. If you have any questions regarding the research paper please see me ahead of time. Coming to me at the last minute with problems is not a good idea. It is strongly recommended for students that are considering this extra credit assignment to get an approval in writing (email) from the Instructor regarding the subject of their paper and its scope.
Research papers address a specific research question, either through the analysis of secondary data you compile (analytical paper) or [for this class] through the comparison of the results of current research (comparative paper). An outline of a comparative paper is detailed below.
Comparative Format
Introduction
Description of the topic
Clearly stated research question
Relevant Current / Historic Research
Review of past or current work
Analysis
General finding among researchers
Comparison of the various results
Problems and/or key issues
Discussion
Observations concerning the results
Conclusions
References Cited
Remember that each of these components should be used in the final paper to avoid duplicating work. So for example, use your outline as the basis for organizing and presenting your work. The final grade for your research paper is composed of all of these components. Failure to hand-in any of them will result in the loss of points.
Specific Research Paper Requirements
Please note the following specific requirements for the research paper. They are to appear in the order that they are listed:
A Title Page with: a. The paper title b. Your name, the course, and the date c. The professor’s name d. One paragraph abstract
A Table of Contents with: a. Subheadings that appear in the text b. Page number of these headings
A Research Paper with: a. Begins with an Introduction b. Has a well organized Body divided into Sections and Subsections c. Ends with a Conclusion or Summary (6-8 pages).
A Reference (at least 10 sources-APA 7.0 style).
If needed, an Appendix with the data used to construct the map or other information not cited in the text.
Additional Requirements – These additional requirements are geared toward producing the final printed work:
1 inch margins only 12 point font Double spaced lines Sections and subsections divided by one blank line No blank lines between paragraphs in the same section Single spaced references/bibliography No one-sentence paragraphs Number all pages except the Title Page All embedded maps and graphics include a numbered caption (e.g. Figure 1: Cancer Map)
Paper Length – Paper length refers to the total number of text pages, excluding all figures, graphics, maps, and references. The paper length listed in the syllabus refers to the minimum number of full pages that are required. Papers can exceed this minimum requirement by one or two pages. Please include page numbers only on body of the paper. Title pages, table of contents, etc should not be numbered.
Introduction and Conclusion/Summary – All papers must include a 1 to 2 paragraph Introduction and Conclusion or Summary. The Introduction must introduce the topic, address what points will be covered, state the time frame, and any other information that will help the reader understand the point of the research. It is here that the research question or topic should be clearly stated. The Summary should briefly re-state the main points of the paper and address any issues raised by the research.
Use of Personal Pronouns – Papers should be written in the abstract or third person. Do not use personal pronouns (you, I, me). Rather than writing, “The reason why you never” try to restructure the sentence to remove the personal pronoun.
Grammar/Sentence Structure/Spelling
Good grammar and/or sentence structure is critical for conveying ideas and information correctly without misinterpretation. Excessive bad grammar, misspellings, and/or poor sentence structure will result in lost points. Avoid run-on sentences, one sentence paragraphs, excessive use of jargon, and writing “as you speak.” Carefully consider your punctuation and avoid excessive commas.
Excessive Quotations
The use of direct quotations should be limited only to those that add substance to the paper. Excessive direct quotations show that the writer either cannot paraphrase or is lazy.
Padding
Padding refers to using inappropriate techniques to increase the length of a research paper. Excessively wide margins (>1), superfluous bullet or number lists, excessive spacing between headings or paragraphs are all examples of padding. A small amount of padding may be excused due to computer formatting or trying to make your paper look good. Excessive padding with lists or blank lines is unacceptable.
Missing Research Paper Deadlines The actual deadline for handing in the research paper or any of its components will be announced in class. These dates may be adjusted based on unforeseen circumstances. However, the final date for handing in the paper will be the one announced in class unless otherwise noted. The paper will be due at the end of class on this date. Handing in the paper after class is considered late and the grade will be adjusted accordingly. If you have special circumstances which impact your ability to hand in the research paper on time, you must see me in advance. Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 10% per day late
Other Observations Concerning Research Papers
Including a map, figure, or graph within the text of your research paper is fine, as long as you realize that (a) it must be legible at the reduced size, (b) it is placed as close as possible to the text reference, and (c) it does not count toward the total paper length. Letter (c) is important because handing in a paper that is exactly X-number of pages including the graphics will cost you 5%.
Avoid unnecessary and superfluous graphics. They may look good, but unless they are referenced in the text they add nothing to your actual grade. Also note that too many graphics gives the appearance that you are ‘padding’ your paper.
Writing Standards
Conformity to the American Psychological Association standards for scholarly writing (APA 7.0). The minimum standards include the following: a. Consistent use of complete sentences; b. Correct use of grammatical constructions, punctuation, sequencing (paragraphing), referencing, hyphenation, spelling, headings, capitalizations, abbreviations, and margins; c. Appropriate content, clarity, conciseness, and style; d. Neat appearance
Twenty percent of the grade for each written assignment will be based solely on writing mechanics.
Each written assignment must contain no more than (5) grammatical errors and/or (5) APA 7.0 errors (e.g., in-text reference citation, reference list).
When a paper is submitted that does not meet departmental standards, it will be returned (ungraded) to the student(s) for revision. The student(s) will have (3) calendar days to revise and resubmit the paper.
Any paper that is returned to the student(s) for revisions will have an automatic 10% deduction in the total grade for the assignment.
Upon resubmission, if a paper still does not meet departmental standards, the student(s) will be given a 0 (zero) for the written portion of the total paper grade, and will be graded only for required content.
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