The Research Paper
English 101
Ms. Floyd
Spring 2007Research affords the student the opportunity to explore extensively a topic that he or she is especially interested in. With the guidance of the instructor, the student chooses a topic and works independently. In English 101, the focused topic should be current and relevant to the student’s personal life or professional goals.
A research paper is a synthesis of information from many sources. In English 101, the student will gather information from a variety of sources. In addition to printed media (books, periodicals, newspapers, government documents), the student may use radio and television broadcasts, information services, computer software, videotapes, personal and telephone interviews, and the like. It is hoped that through this experience the student will realize that research is not just a scavenger hunt in the library.
The student will discuss the topic in a parenthetically documented essay, citing information from at least six current sources (sources published within the past five years). Students may consult an encyclopedia for an overview of the topic; however, an encyclopedia may not be one of the six current sources. Students are also encouraged to utilize electronic technology: Internet, electronic databases, electronic periodicals, and so on; however, only two of the six current sources may be web sites other than VIVA. While consulting Internet sites, students should be aware of the credibility of the sites and cite only from sites whose credibility can be established.
The research paper will include a formal sentence outline with thesis statement, the parenthetically documented essay (from six to eight typed pages), the definitive works consulted, and a writer’s memo. In the writer’s memo, the student should discuss his or her research process, identify problems encountered, and discuss how he or she solved those problems. The writer's memo should be approximately two typed double-spaced pages.
Some students will be researching a controversial issue. As he or she researches, the student should be alert to areas where sources agree and disagree and should analyze the pros and cons of the controversy. After digesting the information, the student should decide where he or she stands on the issue. The student should articulate his or her position on the issue, acknowledge and accommodate and/or refute the opposing view, and support his or her position with sound reasoning and solid evidence. (See LBH and Strategies for chapters on writing argumentation.)
Each student will meet with the instructor to discuss the research paper. The student should bring revised thesis statement and outline; note cards; at least three sources cited in the essay; at least four pages of typed, parenthetically documented essay; and revised works consulted to the conference. Until the student and I have had this conference, I will not accept the student's research paper.
Deadlines for note cards, outline with thesis statement, and drafts are included in the class schedule.
Two important notes:
1. This paper should not be a paper on "what do I do to become a nurse (or teacher or engineer . . .)." Look for issues in your chosen field. Also, no papers on legalization of marijuana, teen pregnancy, abortion, or capital punishment will be accepted. These topics have been researched over and over again.
2. I will accept only research papers that I have seen in progress.