Research Papers and Presentationstions

1. As always, your "opinion" is valued. Your creativity and analysis are expected. The topic of the paper is entirely of your own choosing. This is often difficult. I strongly urge you to choose a topic in the course that you have some interest in learning more about. Of course, all topics must be relevant to the course.

2. I fully recognize that how you choose to organize your papers will be difficult. There are many methods to do it. Part of the challenge of learning is learning how to organize a paper and/or presentation. Thus, struggle with this part of the exercise will be normal.

3. Use at least 5-10 outside sources for research. Outside sources can be books, videos; web sites seem to provide solid information. Do not rely solely on web sites either. Do not rely on the course textbooks and/or lecture notes. That is not research. 

4.All papers must include a bibliography and footnotes or endnotes. Papers without either will not be read or graded. The style of documentation must be a recognized and accepted by the academy. Bibliographical style is generally standard. If you do not know how to properly construct a bibliography or footnote or endnote, consult with a writing style manual such as the Chicago Manual of Style, MLA Style Manual, etc.

5. I would prefer a paper in the 15- 20-page range. You should shoot for 12 pages minimum.  You will not be penalized for going over or under but if you go under be wary that your work must be of exceptional quality. If you go over 20 pages, I admire your effort but beware that excessive verbiage does not necessarily translate to high quality.  Papers 25 pages or more will be returned with the request that they be cut down.

7. I do not give extensions for anything but extraordinary circumstance. Part of doing a project under a deadline is to meet the deadline. Please do not even ask for an extension unless there is a serious circumstance. You lose 3 points per day for every day late. This 3-point rule will be applied to all assignments with deadline.

In some courses you may also be asked to make an oral presentation.   When presentations are assigned, ALL members of the class will have to make a presentation. In many ways, the process of preparing a paper and presentation are the same.  Here are some tips you may find useful:

1. Outline your discussion.  The outline should delineate the major points, themes and issues you wish to address in the time allotted.   Adhere to the outline during the presentation as much as possible. 

2. When possible, prepare and use visual aids.

3. Seek interaction with the class; entertain questions from the class or ask questions.

4. Come prepared with a well organized and researched presentation.