Biology Research Paper

Biology 1407 – Research Project Requirements

Use APA format for this assignment.

· Helpful website: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/rsource/560/01/

Topic:

Write a research/position paper on whether the Mountain View College facilities department should treat the pond ecosystem with chemicals to control invasive plants.

Background:

In 1995 the health of the MVC pond system was threatened by a buildup of sludge and aquatic growth that reduced the water flow to a trickle. At that time, facilities contracted out the dredging of the entire pond system which restored flow and brought the pond back to an aesthetically pleasing state. In recent years, invasive plants have taken over the pond system. Recently MVC contracted with Magnolia Fisheries, Inc to cleanup and maintain the ponds since it has successfully treated other ponds in the Dallas County Community College District. Following is a list of chemicals that are being used to control aquatic growth.

· Sonar AS: systemic control of submersed vegetation

· Captain XTR: algaecide

· Triclopyr: systemic, emergent weed treatment

· Aqua King Non Ionic Surfactant

· Aquathol: contact herbicide

Paper:

1. Running Header:

a. The running header appears on each page and is a short version of the title

2. Title Page:

a. Title

b. Name

c. College Name

3. Abstract:

a. Write a concise summary of your research

4. Introduction:

a. Write a 3-4 page research paper on pond ecosystems like the one found at MVC.

b. Include in-text citations using APA format

c. Use scholarly sources (No Wikipedia, etc)

d. Include what is already known about the topic.

5. Write research based discussion on the pros and cons of the current MVC policy related to the aquatic ecosystem:

a. Include in-text citations.

b. Include scientific sources and research conducted by BIOL 1407 students this semester and in past semesters.

6. Conclusions:

a. Defend the best position on this topic based on research. Include sources with in-text citations.

b. Include a discussion of further research that is needed in order to confirm your current position on this topic.

c. End with a summary paragraph that reviews the main topics covered by the paper.

7. References:

a. Use APA format to provide a complete list of all outside resources used to write your proposal. Remember to list information that you paraphrased and other people’s ideas, not just direct quotes.