Dr. Dean Taciuch
George Mason University

Fall 2009


English 302: N12 & N13
Final Research Paper

The major assignment for this course will be 10-12 page research paper on a topic chosen appropriate to your field of study. You may choose a topic we've discussed in class, but you are not limited to these topics. The topic, however, should related to science research.

The research project has five parts: a research proposal, a literature review, an annotated bibliography, a draft with peer review, and the final project essay.

The topic should be narrow enough to cover adequately in 10-12 pages. Topic areas such as evolutionary theory or quantum physics are obviously too broad, but specific applications or recent findings in those fields may well be appropriate. The research proposal will help narrow your topic; once you identify an audience, your purpose and thesis will become more defined.

The final essay must synthesis multiple sources (usually between 8 - 10 sources) into a coherent essay which expresses your ideas and findings on the subject. You should have a mix of different sources, incorporating journals, magazines, newspapers, books, and websites. All sources must be cited in an appropriate format.

The purpose can be explanatory, persuasive, or (most likely) some combination of the two. Consider your audience: what do they know about the subject? What do they need to know?

The final paper will have a three part structure: an Introduction, a Background section, and a Discussion and Conclusion section.

In the Introduction, explain your reasons for conducting the research. Why is this issue important to your audience? Give an overview of the current research on the issue.

In the Background section, present your Review of the Literature.

In the Discussion and Conclusion section, you will develop your thesis. Focus on what you consider to be the key issues. Explain and present your conclusions and (if appropriate) recommendations.

Grades on the final essay will be based primarily on the writing and organization. Unlike the other essays in this course, the final essay cannot be revised. We will, however, have a peer review session in class.

 

Dr Taciuch Home

Course Syllabus

Course Schedule