Sophomore English Research Project ~ Mrs. Kunkel

For class, you will be required to write a formal research paper. This paper will be an evidence based argumentative piece – a paper that presents and defends an argument.

Your argument must be debatable, meaning the topic of the paper must be something that people have differing opinions on. Your paper must include a precise central claim that will be supported by relevant and sufficient evidence and valid, clear reasoning.

The goal of the paper is to present a clear, convincing and compelling argument that people will be interested in and possibly want to act upon. Another goal is to convince your audience that your claim is true based on the evidence provided.

This assignment will require you to research, document, interpret, and present information as evidence from reliable and credible sources to support your claim. 

 The FINAL paper must be:

‚                   5-7 pages

‚                   written in MLA format

‚                   typed

‚                   12 point font

‚                   Times New Roman

‚                   black ink for text

‚                   submitted to TURNITIN.COM

      The FINAL paper must incorporate evidence from at least five identifiable sources, maintain a formal style of writing and follow the conventions of standard written English.

Our school librarian Dr. Hatcher will instruct and advise you on how to use pertinent information resources and tools for this assignment.  

Some recommended resources: 

VRC Databases: 

•  SIRS Knowledge Source (See Issues Researcher handout)
• Opposing Viewpoints in Context
• eLibrary Curriculum Edition 

 Book & eBooks: 

Access your school's collection at Destiny Library Services

Note: An eBook app Follett BryteWave is available at the App Store or at Google Play for mobile devices. 

Works Citation: 

• Owl Purdue Online Writing Lab (MLA style guide)
• Noodletools  (citation maker)  Note: There is an App (Noodletools Companion) available for mobile devices.