Research Paper Guidelines
Graduate Paper: Each student will choose one of the topics provided for this assignment and write a 6-8 page research paper (1-inch margins, Times New Roman, 12-point font). For this assignment, no more than 8 pages, not including title page and references. Make sure you are using proper APA format to include headings. Make sure you are looking at the grading rubric as well.
Recommended topic categories for this paper:
Research-based treatment methods for adolescents with substance abuse disorders or co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders
If a student would like to write about a topic not on this list, please check with the instructor prior to doing so.
Include the following sections in the paper:
Summary of the research that you have completed
Similarities to the information presented in the course lectures and readings
Differences or contradictions with the information presented in the course lectures and readings
How could you apply the information presented in this article if you were/are working with youth?
Submit your research paper in .doc, .docx, or .pdf format only.
Rubric
Research Paper Rubric
Research Paper Rubric
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeVisual Presentation: All of the following are required elements: cover page containing relevant information, including descriptive title. Section headings. Clear and professional looking.
10.0 pts
All required elements are present.
7.5 pts
One required element is missing.
5.0 pts
Two required elements are missing.
2.5 pts
Many required elements are missing.
0.0 pts
None of the required elements are present.
10.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeStructure and Content: All questions in the assignment are addressed. A clearly stated thesis is included in an introduction section, followed by supporting information throughout the rest of the paper. There is a logical flow to the topics/arguments made. A conclusion follows clearly from the arguments presented.
50.0 pts
All required content is present including clear thesis, supporting information and conclusion.
37.5 pts
Nearly all required content is present. Most questions were addressed.
25.0 pts
Only some of the questions were answered or only some of the required content is present.
12.5 pts
The majority of assignment questions went unanswered. Most required content (thesis, supporting information conclusion) is missing.
0.0 pts
None of the questions in the assignment were addressed and/or none of the required content is present (thesis, supporting information, conclusion).
50.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeResearch and Sources: A minimum of 3 quality sources beyond assigned course materials are used. Quality sources include: peer-reviewed academic journals, professional books, websites, journals. Do not use Wikipedia, .com websites, treatment center promotional websites, and other non-academic sources.
20.0 pts
A minimum of 3 quality sources beyond assigned course materials are used.
15.0 pts
Only 2 quality sources beyond assigned course materials are used.
10.0 pts
Only 1 quality source beyond assigned course materials is used.
5.0 pts
Only 1 quality source beyond assigned course materials is used and paper relies upon prohibited sources (Wikipedia, treatment center promotional websites, drugs.com, etc.).
0.0 pts
No quality sources are used.
20.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAPA Format and Citations: Correct APA format is used to cite all direct quotes and paraphrased information in the body of the paper. A complete references list following APA format is included at the end of the paper. For more information about APA see https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/
10.0 pts
Correct APA format is used to cite all direct quotes and paraphrased information in the body of the paper. A complete references list following APA format is included at the end of the paper.
7.5 pts
There are a few small errors in the APA citations or references list.
5.0 pts
There are a few major errors or many repeated small errors in the APA citations or references.
2.5 pts
There are many major errors in the use of APA for citations or the referelences list.
0.0 pts
APA was not used to cite sources, a different format was used. OR No citations were used and there is no references list. Student takes credit for uncited work as their own.
10.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWriting Style: Correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation are used throughout. First person is not used (i.e. “I chose this topic because”) and third person/passive voice is used.
10.0 pts
Correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation are used throughout. First person is not used (i.e. “I chose this topic because”) and third person/passive voice is used.
7.5 pts
A few small grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors are present.
5.0 pts
Many grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors are present.
2.5 pts
Grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors are extensive throughout paper.
0.0 pts
Grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors are persistent throughout the entire paper.
10.0 pts
Total Points: 100.0
