HST315 Research Paper Instructions
For this paper you must examine one of the European revolutions occurring towards the end of the 1980s, around the time of the decline of the Soviet Union. Your paper must utilize a significant primary source (sources) and present an argument, either discussing the causes of the revolution or the consequences of the revolution. It cannot be narrative or descriptive. If you are worried about whether your topic is acceptable you can complete the research proposal. You have an opportunity to submit the paper early for comments. Consider P&H Chapter 23 to get yourself started on a topic.
You must have a minimum of eight sources for this paper, excluding anything you use from class. At least one of these sources must be a significant primary source. For example, the MSU library has the writings of Vaclav Havel, one of the Czech dissidents who became a president of post-Soviet Czechoslovakia. Make sure you review the General Guidelines for this assignment and understand that serious research is expected for it. Sources include books, academic journal articles, etc. Internet sources are limited to online journal articles (the MSU librarys Academic Search Complete and J-Stor are both good ones), e-books, and online primary sources (ex. Internet History Sourcebook). Do not use any regular web sources or encyclopedias. They are usually not peer-reviewed as required.
You must have between 1750 and 2000 words of typed, regular-font text in the paper (the word limit doesnt include notes or bibliography or anything). Thats about 7-8 pages double spaced. The margins all around the paper should be set at one inch. There should be the required cover page, notes (either endnotes or footnotes but not parenthetical references) and a complete bibliography. Use Turabian or the Chicago Manual of Style for your format.
Scoring Rubric:
Thesis and Organization (15 points):
*Paper does not narrate information but has a strong thesis and a structured argument. Papers that are extremely narrative will not fulfill the assignment and might receive harsher point penalties.
Research (75 points):
*The paper has the required minimum number of sources, they are appropriate, and all have been used extensively. At least 1/3 of the research/referencing comes from primary sources.
Analysis and Evidence (75 points):
*Paper shows appropriate level of historical understanding, analysis, etc. Student has provided evidence to support ideas. Quotes support the students argument (are not in place of the students argument) and there are at most two short ones.
Writing is Correct, Formal, Clear and Concise/Correct Presentation (35 points):
*Make sure the style guide is used properly.
