Explanatory Report, Project 3

*Final Draft due:  March 31 (along with project 4)*

 

This paper will give you practice in the research skills locating appropriate, credible, and balanced sources; synthesizing a variety of sources; interpreting the connections between sources; and using proper APA documentation.  You must use a minimum of 3 credible sources in this paper. 

 

The primary purpose of this report is to bring together various sources to build a better understanding of a topic related to your final research project. Thus, your main purpose is to inform. That said, you will need to go a bit beyond summary in that you will interpret different sources and may decide to conclude by explaining your interpretation of what these sources together tell you/us about the topic.

 

Your report should assume that your readers are unfamiliar with the topic and sources.

 

Grading Criteria

• a focused thesis and adequate support;
• evidence of critical reading and understanding of the sources and the connections between them (how similar or different they are);
• presentation of a balanced (objective, from all sides of the issue) view of the topic (including quality of sources);
• organization of information;
• use of standard academic discourse and proper APA documentation;
• clarity of expression (academic discourse, etc.);
• grammar and mechanics (spelling, punctuation, paper formatting, etc. ); (writing lab: +2%)
• appropriate length;
• evidence of prewriting, drafting, revision, and editing (at least THREE rough drafts, and at least one of them read by your teacher!)

 

 

Guidelines

• 750-850 words; typed; double-spaced;
• use of APA standard documentation formatting (including a list of References)
• use of academic discourse; written for a general academic audience

 

 

Important Dates

• Wednesday 03/12 1^st draft due, bring THREE COPIES! in-class peer review (focus on content and organization)
• Monday 3/24 2^nd draft, bring THREE COPIES in-class peer review (focus on expression, APA documentation and development of ideas). First draft of PROJECT 4 DUE: bring TWO COPIES!
• Wednesday 3/31 final draft due at the beginning of class with all previous drafts and materials (articles) used for this project, AND WITH PROJECT 4!

 

 

Important Reminders

Participation in peer reviews is an important part of this class. Do not attend class on 3/12 or 3/24 without THREE COPIES of your paper. Attendance without preparation (paper drafts) for these classes will not be counted.