Write a 7 to 8 page Research Paper on the topic you chose.
Your paper should include:
A strong introduction and a clear, concrete thesis statement indicating what you will prove or disprove about the topic. (Try to avoid statements like: In this paper, I will….) I provided many good samples of thesis statements in the Research Module.
Bodies with evidence from the Sierra College Library and databases. Your sources should rate high on the BADSAC scale. Your bodies should present, good arguments and also consider competing claims: What other counter-arguments have been put forward (or could be put forward) to counter your points? How would you respond to them? In fact, consideration of counter-arguments is often a good way to begin your paper. How have scholars normally accounted for a particular event or trend? What are the weaknesses of their accounts? What evidence might be marshaled to suggest an alternative explanation? How does your account differ from the conventional wisdom? Your bodies should present your ideas on the topic and should be roughly 40% evidence and 60% your thoughts and ideas. Try to avoid using person pronouns; they weaken academic writing and are not necessary.
Your writing should present your argument and evidence in a clear, logical, and creative way. Sources must be accurately and adequately cited and evidence should be embedded within the paper. The writing style must be formal and serious. Tables, graphs or other illustrations should be included if they support your overall thesis.
Conclude with your findings on the topic and perhaps urge for change based on your findings.
