English Composition
The Research Paper Assignment and Rubric
? Write a 5-8 page research paper dealing with a controversial topic that interests you. The paper should use argument as the primary development pattern. This paper should have a thesis statement as all good essays do; be sure that the research determines your position rather than your opinion determining the research.
? Your purpose is to defend a position on a topic of your choice after presenting the other main position/s on the topic in a fair-minded, objective manner. Don?t overstate your position. Don?t insult. Persuade. Don?t attack.

? Body and supporting paragraphs should have topic sentences that clearly align to your thesis statement, and paragraphs must be well developed, unified, and coherent. The tone and style of this paper should mimic that of scholarly discourse, which excludes colloquial expressions and slang.
? Sources should always complement your opinions and never serve as the foundation of your argument. Keep in mind that you should use the third person point-of-view. The paper should reflect your academic research techniques and your ability to write at a college level. Show good reasoning ability.
? You must research and document at least five sources for this paper. You must use both primary and secondary sources, but the bulk of your research will probably consist of secondary sources. Use quality sources that lend validity and reliability to your research.

? You must use at least one primary source (see pages 379-386, Steps). This source might be:
? An interview with an appropriate person or group. The interview can be done face-to-face, over the phone, or via e-mail.
? A questionnaire. Consider using www.zoomerang.org to build and administer your questionnaire.
? At least two sources must be print sources or print-equivalent sources.
? Be sure to document all sources according to MLA standards, using both parenthetical references and a separate Works Cited page.
? Plagiarized papers will receive NO CREDIT! Remember, if your paper includes paraphrased material that does not give credit to the original author, you are guilty of plagiarism. I will deduct points for papers that, while not plagiarized in full or in substantial enough portions to earn a failing grade, are not adequately cited.