This assignment is designed to briefly summarize the parts of the research process which the student has completed to date. Before beginning this assignment, be sure to read the specifications for the research project itself very carefully. Each student should submit a brief summary covering the information listed under Content, using each item as a heading. Because this assignment is so short, it is intended for submission by email as an attachment..

• To begin thinking about and planning the research project in a timely fashion
• To identify and commit to a topic as early as possible, and to begin to narrow that topic
• To identify problems with availability of materials or with the scope of the paper early in the research process
• To assemble the materials necessary for a well-supported paper
• To identify and access the sources which will be most helpful in preparing this paper
• To develop the student's individual contribution to the area of knowledge selected for his/her paper

• Topic of Paper
• Why I Selected this Topic, including its relevance to my major and/or career choice
• How this topic will/may affect the future of my major/career
• What I Hope to Show in this Paper
• Intended Audience for this Paper
• Independent Contribution I Will Make to this Subject
• Graphs, Charts or Other Illustrations I will Include (optional)
• List of Possible Sources (Should have at least 5 of the ultimate ten or more.)

It is understood that the process of completing the paper may change the decisions made for this proposal. Sources, illustrative material and even the final conclusion may very well change as the paper evolves. This is not a problem. In the mean time, grading for this assignment will be based on the following criteria.

• All items have been filled out with thoughtful, realistic responses
• The scope of the paper is appropriate for 5-7 pages of text
• The proposed topic is current, with new developments constantly being made
• Any graphical materials truly expand or enhance a reader's understanding of the topic, not merely add "window dressing." Graphics are NOT required.
• Five or more sources are included in the tentative bibliography, which is prepared in the format approriate to the student's major. Sources must be 
• scholarly or professional, 
• screened for reliability and 
• directly relevant to the choice of topic. 
• Except for one or two which might establish historical background, all should be current--written within the last five years.