15-Assignment 1

In this assignment you will use the skills learned in class to critically evaluate evidence and write a research paper. Please research a topic from the list below to write your research paper. This assignment is three parts. The first part is to research a topic and write a paper using the evidence you found. And the second part is to critique a classmate’s written assignment and receive feedback on yours. You will then revise your research paper using the feedback you get from your classmate.

Part 1 Annotated Bibliography

1. Please find at least 3 sources for your research topic and evaluate their credibility.
2. These must come from: reputable news sources and scientific journal articles.
3. Turn in a brief paragraph (typed, single spaced) for each article describing the material and why you think it is or is not credible and if you will use it.
4. If it is credible, why would you or wouldn't you use this source?

Part 2 Research Paper

1. Write a 4-5 page, double-spaced research paper. Use 12-point Times New Roman font and 1-inch margins.
2. Include a minimum of 5 in-text citations, at least 2 of which, must come from a scientific journal article. Science, Nature, Ecology, American Naturalist, Geoscience, Conservation Biology, TRENDS in Ecology and Evolution, and Global Environmental Change are good examples and there are many, many more. If you have any questions about what makes a legitimate scientific publication, please email your instructor.
3. Reminder: These must come from: reputable news sources, books and scientific journal articles (2 min). Do not include youtube videos, blogs, Wikipedia or other online sources.
4. Include a literature cited section at the end of your paper (minimum 5 sources).

Potential research topics

1) What is the evidence for climate change and its current effects?

2) What were some of the effects of the clean air/clean water acts? 

3) What are the advantages or disadvantages of hydroelectric dams?

4) What are the risks/benefits of removing natural environments in favor of green energy projects?

5) What is the potential benefit of sending a person to Mars within the next 5-10 years? How does this compare to the potential of remote controlled rovers and satellites? 

6) What are the risks/benefits of genetic modifications to the DNA of human embryos in order to prevent genetic diseases?

7) Is nuclear energy a viable energy source to combat global warming and to help meet the growing energy demand?

8) A topic of your choosing (with permission from instructor)