WESTERN STUDIES

SOPHOMORE EXHIBITION: PERSUASIVE PAPER Culminating Project

Now that you have researched your topic, you are ready to begin writing your persuasive paper.

I.      General Requirements

A.    To fulfill the paper requirement you will need to write a 3-4 page persuasive essay organized around the following prompt: Based on (3) social science perspectives, did your topic have a positive or negative impact?

II.      Paper Requirements

A.    Introduction

1.       Attention getter – a statement, quote, anecdote, etc. that will entice (I’m hoping!) the reader.

2.       Thesis Statement & Topic Sentence: Include (Your topic) had a positive/negative (choose one) impact on (Who/What) as viewed through (3) social science perspectives.

a.       The punitive measures of the Treaty of Versailles caused World WarII. This can be illustrated by examining the situation through political, economic and psychological perspectives.

3.       Transition: Transition smoothly into the first body paragraph.

B.     Body

1.       Three (3) body paragraphs:  These paragraphs will provide the reader with three, clear perspectives through which can be seen their positive or negative impact.

2.       Each body paragraph must include a topic sentence.

3.       Each paragraph must include supporting evidence with paraphrased information or quotes from a reliable source.

4.       The importance/significance of all evidence must be explained (consequences).

5.       Each quote or paraphrase must be cited internally using proper MLA format, and appear on the works consulted page. (Remember, this is NOT new information. You are using others’ work and must give them credit.) Failure to cite your sources will heavily impact your grade. (See note on plagiarism)

C.    Conclusion

1.       Transition from body of paper.

2.       Restate your thesis (not in the same words)

3.       Parting shot - gracefully exit your paper (good luck).

III.      Research and Works Consulted Page

A.    You must use at least three (3) separate sources in your research, none of which may be encyclopedias. One must be a primary source. You may also use sources in the following categories: books, newspapers, magazines, CD-ROM, electronic, interviews, etc.

B.     All internal citations must be in proper MLA format.

C.    A Works Consulted page, in MLA format, that alphabetically lists all of the works you cited, paraphrased and/or consulted in your paper must be included. Failure to properly cite your work will severely impact your grade. (See note on plagiarism.)

IV.      Manuscript Requirements

A.    Your paper must be word-processed, double-spaced, utilize appropriate 12 point font, with margins set at one inch.

B.     Your paper should be 3-4 pages in length, not including your Works Consulted page.

PLAGIARISM: Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to: copying, lifting, or taking information from others without giving due credit to the original author or source. Not including proper internal citations and/or the Works Consulted page, is considered plagiarism. Violation of this policy will result in zero credit for the assignment and other serious repercussions, including possible failure of the class.

Due dates:

4-6-09                 6 sources

4-9-09               Narrowed topics

4-16-09             Annotated Bibliography

4-24-09             Outline of paper

5-1-09               1^st draft paper

5-7-09               2^nd draft of paper

5-15-09             Final draft of paper