editing a research paper

ENGL 1010 Research Project

1

Focus on a problem such as illiteracy, bullying, domestic violence, obesity, and other social issues. Consider there are ways to prevent, or obliterate this problem.

Start by researching facts, statistics, dates, and any other pertinent information regarding this problem.

For example, if I saw students’ success in freshman composition courses as a problem, I might decide to propose solutions by considering what they are having the most issues with. Then, I might address those issues by providing the necessary resources to encourage more efficiency and success.

Once you have selected a problem, and researched the facts and other information about it, consider proposed solutions to either address the prevention of the problem, or, to resolve the problem. Either way, you must consider the time frame for which you are analyzing the context of your topic. Additionally, your synthesis should revolve around suggestions for your audience along with informative details.

Your paper must point out and attempt to solve particular layers of your topic. You should not only imagine what might be wrong, but also what can be better than it is.

Consider the following:

PROBLEM

What are the causes of the problem?

What are the most troubling or alarming images associated with the problem?

What are its short-term effects? Long-term effects?

What other situation (event, attitude) does this problem resemble?

SOLUTION

What action (solution) will best address the causes of the problem?

What might stand in the way of this solution?

How will the solution change the situation?

Does this solution have potential shortcomings or limitations?

REMEMBER:

“A solution might change the intellectual environment so that physical changes can take place later”

PUBLIC RESONANCE

Who should care about his issue? Why?

What particular community, place, or group does this issue effect?

How might my reader(s) be involved in this issue?

Why is it important that others hear my opinion about this issue?

KEY ELEMENTS

Problem: Includes illustrations or examples, and explanation of causes, and a picture of short- and long-term side effects.

Solutions: Includes an explanation of how that solution will address, confront, or stop the causes of the problem.

Counterargument: Addresses concerns about or opposing claims to the solution or the articulation of the problem.

Alternative Solutions: Include any other potential strategies for addressing the problem. Articulating alternative solutions requires an explanation of why these are less desirable than the main solution being offered.

Concession/ Qualifier: Acknowledges any possible shortcomings of the solution or concedes value to some opposing claim or alternative solution.

The paper must:

Be a minimum of 5 pages (content, does not include works cited)

Follow guidelines of MLA formatting

Include a works cited page with a minimum of 5 sources

Be submitted with completed checklist, or corrected assignments must be submitted for grading

Be submitted on the last day of class for final grading and overall assessment of the project

NOTE:

Refer to checklist for due dates

Revised for Fall 2014