musical research paper ( read attachments thoroughly)

First, let me address what the QEP assignment is not. The research paper is not a biography. You must address issues of race, class, gender, sexuality, or other definers of identity. Bear in mind that while lyrics and performance are important, you must address musical issues as well by providing a listening guide.

HOW MANY PAGES?

Typically, research papers are about five pages, plus the cover page, and the works cited page. Please do not go over 10 pages of content. I grade papers according to the RUBRIC, not based on the number of pages.

VOICE:

Write the Research Paper in third person. Do not use the words "I," "my," "we," "our," and so forth. This is an academic research paper and students should follow APA or MLA style.

PLEASE EXPLAIN THE RUBRIC:

I use this scoring guide to grade the research paper and presentation. Use the rubric as a reference throughout the writing process. Read the rubric BEFORE you start writing. Refer to the rubric THROUGHOUT your writing. COMPARE your final paper and presentation to the rubric before submitting

E: Purpose

C: Clearly identifies main issue(s), problem(s), or intention(s).

Explicitly state, in the first paragraph, the purpose of your paper. I am looking for sentences like “The purpose of this paper is…,” “This author intends to explore…,” and/or “The problems to be addressed are…”

E: Perspective

C: Investigates point(s) of view and assumptions.

I expect to read at least one paragraph; in which you address the OPPOSITE (divergent) point of view. This paragraph may include sentences like, “Though most agree that …, some authors present an opposite perspective. Divergent viewpoints include…”

E: Evidence

C: Supports purpose with relevant, sufficient evidence and defines concepts.

Be sure to include evidence (sources that agree with you) to support each viewpoint. Be sure to cite each source (see Uses appropriate sources and cites the correctly).

E: Analysis

C: Analyzes the consequences and implications of reasoning.

For this element of the rubric, I want to see that you use evidence (cited resources) rather than just your opinion to support your reasoning. If you have an opinion, find and cite another author, who supports your opinion.

E: Core Values:

C: Addresses core value(s) specifically and demonstrates their relevance.

There are several ways to address the SLU Core Values in the paper; however, I will address one possible option. If you need to review the SLU Core Values, please follow this link – http://www.saintleo.edu/about/florida-catholic-university.aspx.

Be sure to include a paragraph in the paper, in which you address at least one of the SLU Core Values, within the context of the subject of the research paper. Yes, I will be looking for the words “SLU Core Values.”

For example…

“Madonna exhibited the SLU Core Value of Integrity throughout her career. She was honest, just, and consistent in her words and deeds. Many of her words and deeds were very controversial, yet she remained honest to herself. For example, her dance moves and choice of performance attire pushed the boundaries of many. She refused to conform to social expectations.

Madonna also models the SLU Core Value of Community through her charity – Raising Malawi, which helps to provide support for vulnerable children. She helps to create a socially responsible environment, and challenges all of us to serve those among us who may be vulnerable.”

E: Decision Making

C: States the various options of decision-making and choses a solution.

Allow your reader insight into your decision making process.

Though I want you to identify your purpose, it is also important that you demonstrate that you have explored various perspectives. Let your reader know that you may be wrong. You may address this element at the same time you address the element (Perspective), because both relate to divergent viewpoints.

E: Grammar and Organization

C: Uses good grammar and organized the paper in a consistent and logical way.

This element is self-explanatory.

E: Choice of appropriate topic

C: Chooses a topic that can be examined in a scholarly way that goes beyond a basic biography or playlist.

If I have approved your topic, you should earn these points, provided you addressed issues of race, class, gender, sexuality, OR other definers of identity. Please note that the research paper is not a biography.

E: Uses appropriate sources and cites them correctly:

C: Uses a minimum of three (3) scholarly sources and cites them within the paper using APA/MLA style.

This link takes you to the MLA guide: