8th - Reasearch Paper Project

Goal:

 To write an ANALYTICAL or ARGUMENTATIVE research paper

ANALYTICAL - In an analytical research paper, you do research to become an expert on a topic so that you can restructure and present the parts of the topic from your own perspective.

ARGUMENTATIVE - In direct contrast to the analytical paper, your approach here is to take a stand on an issue and use evidence to back-up your stance, not to explore or flesh out an unresolved topic.

 

 

Choices:

Ø     Analytical or Argumentative research paper

Ø     Any subject matter of interest

Ø     Three, four, or five pages [excludes title page, visuals, Works Cited]

Ø     Two or three sources

Ø     Visuals, diagrams: optional

Must Haves:

Ø     Paper: 1 inch margins-Left, Right, Top, Bottom

Ø     Font size: 12

Ø     Title Page:

   Title (middle of page), Name + Date (Lower Right)

Ø     Note cards + source cards

Ø     Outline

Ø      Rough draft

 http://www.crlsresearchguide.org/

The above website is offered as a guide to successful research.

  

1. Select a general topic that interests you in some way.

2. List key words to help you look up information about the topic.

3. Go to an encyclopedia, or other reference source, to get an overview of the topic.

4. Make source cards for whatever sources you will use for information.

5. Using the general overview, begin to focus the topic into something you can cover well.

6. Write a statement of purpose about the focused topic.

7. Brainstorm questions about the focused topic.

8. Group questions under similar headings.

9. Add any new questions you can think of under those headings.

10. Repeat step 2, listing more key words from your newly focused topic and questions.

11. Make a list of possible sources that can answer your questions. Identify the best sources to use.

12. Find the sources in the library, on the computer, etc. Make a source card for each one you use.

13. Begin making note cards. Use your brainstormed questions to guide your note taking.

14. Change your statement of purpose into a draft thesis statement.

15. Make an outline of your headings.

16. Refocus your thesis statement if necessary.

17. Write the body of your paper from your notes.

18. Cite any necessary information with parenthetical citations.

19. Write your introduction and conclusion.

20. Write your Works Cited (it is similar to a bibliography).

21. Create a title page.

22. Evaluate your work.

23. Turn in your paper on time.