Brexit Case Study

6. Introduction

Identify the key problems and issues in the case study. Formulate and include a thesis statement, summarizing the outcome of your analysis in 1–2 sentences. The introduction should describe the research problem, its significance, why the case is being used and how it relates to addressing the problem. A good introduction guides your reader through the evidence, which follows and informs him/her of the overriding purpose of your developed points. I strongly suggest that you have a single sentence that clearly articulates your thesis. It can be as direct as: “The argument of this paper is...” Once you have posed the underlying question and offered a thesis, the body of the paper should be used to defend the thesis.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 2%

7. Background

In this section, students should provide background information of their cases, relevant facts, and the most important issues related to their case study.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 5%

8. Literature Review/Theoretical Framework

The literature review is an essential part of a case study design, which provides background information and historical interpretation of the topic of analysis. Students should provide a critical analysis of literature and theories of revolutions and develop their own argument. An explanation of a case is more convincing when the outcome could not have been predicted using the different theory explanation. Students are required to analyze their case study through the lens of theory.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 5% per component

9. Discussion/Findings

Defending your argument means carefully choosing and analyzing specific evidence based on theories, not simply repeating unsupported generalizations with slightly different wordings again and again. For an argument to be convincing, it is necessary to evaluate all possible sides of an issue. You cannot ignore significant contradictory evidence or counterarguments and will need to address them specifically. The presentation of evidence should not merely be a mindless catalog of facts, but rather a selective and careful analysis of details relevant to your case. To decide what evidence to use, lay out the full array of potential evidence in advance of writing your case study. Then choose that which can be best developed and supported by theories of revolutions.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 5% per component

10. Conclusion

The conclusion should briefly re-state the main points of the paper and address any issues raised by the research. Summarize your conclusion in clear language and emphasize how the findings from your case study differs from or supports prior research and why (your contribution to the field).

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 2%

11. Use of Personal Pronouns

Papers should be written in the abstract or third person. Do not use personal pronouns (you, I, me). Rather than writing, "The reason why you never…" try to restructure the sentence to remove the personal pronoun.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 2%

12. Paper Organization

The paper must be organized into sections, and further into sub-sections where appropriate. Try to base these sections on your outline if possible. Each section and sub-section must have a heading. If your paper is disorganized, difficult to follow, rambling, or unduly boring points will be taken off.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 2%

13. Internet Sources

While Internet sources can be a valuable addition to research, no more than 1/2 of sources cited can be Internet web pages. Do not use personal, business, or other Internet sites that have biased agendas. If using Internet pages as research sources follow the citation method listed in #13 below. On-line journals are treated the same as standard journals. Hint: stick with governmental or other well recognized organizations. Remember that the ease with which you found the Internet information also makes it easy for me to check these sites for accuracy and relevance.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 2%

14. Grammar/Sentence Structure/Spelling

Good grammar and/or sentence structure is critical for conveying ideas and information correctly, without misinterpretation. Excessive bad grammar, misspellings, and/or poor sentence structure will result in lost points. Avoid run-on sentences, one sentence paragraphs, excessive use of jargon, and writing "as you speak." Carefully consider your punctuation and avoid excessive commas.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: Up to 10%

15. Excessive Quotations

The use of direct quotations should be limited only to those that add substance to the paper. Excessive direct quotations show that the writer either cannot paraphrase or is lazy.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 3%

16. Padding

Padding refers to using inappropriate techniques to increase the length of a research paper. Excessively wide margins (>1”), superfluous bullet or number lists, excessive spacing between headings or paragraphs are all examples of padding. A small amount of padding may be excused due to computer formatting or trying to make your paper “look” good. Excessive padding with lists or blank lines is unacceptable.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 3%

17. Reference Citation Format

All sources listed in the Reference section of the paper must be cited in the text of the paper or as the source information for maps, and figures. You may employ whatever system of formatting that works best for you so long as it remains consistent throughout the paper. 

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: Up to 5%

18. Missing Research Paper Deadlines

The final paper for this course is due Friday July 31st by 11:59pm. If you have special circumstances which impact your ability to hand in the research paper on time, you must notify me in advance.

Grade loss for not meeting this requirement: 5% per day late