As you are aware, the goal of English 1B is to develop your research skills to the
college level and to teach you to use research to support your argument. A close
reading of a primary source can give insight into a subject, but in order to get a more
informed and comprehensive perspective, one needs to look to experts. A published
commentary by a critic who knows the subject well and is familiar with the material
can provide insights that otherwise may not be available. Such comments and
interpretations – known as secondary sources can take you into an issue further than
if you made the journey by yourself.
Consider the topics that have come up in the course readings, topics related to
“global rights and perceptions”. Identify a compelling social issue you would like
to address. Narrow it down to a topic that can be usefully dealt with in about 5-8
pages. Begin your paper with a clear focus: the purpose of convincing others to
agree with your ideas, share your values and accept your argument and solutions.
Then attempt to make your thinking believable. Instead of relying on personal
feelings and observations, find quotations from readings and corroboration of your
claims in secondary sources to support your main idea. A minimum of five scholarly
critical sources is required, out of which you may use only one (non-published)
electronic source.
Remember your goal is to get the reader to understand and possibly accept your
interpretation and argument. Keep in mind that your reader will be unbiased but
critical, therefore, evidence not rhetoric will be needed to accomplish your goal.
Paper Format
Papers should be five to eight pages long, titled, typed (no smaller than 12 font size)
double-spaced, numbered and stapled together, with a separate page each for title
(optional, graphics welcome) and bibliographical citations. Remember to use MLA
format for in-text citation, documentation and bibliographic purposes. You can use
charts, graphs, clip art, or illustrations that enhance the appearance of your finished
project.
Papers will be judged on critical insight, originality and an ability to formulate a
persuasive argument validated by appropriate illustration and documentation.
Grammatical and stylistic problems detract significantly from the impact of the paper.
Please make sure the paper is thoroughly proofread and free of such errors.
Oral Presentation
You will be required to do a five-eight minute presentation on your paper to the
class. This presentation should include your thesis, your research ideas, and the
conclusion to which you arrived. Be sure to address the major concerns of your
paper and to cite research to support your central idea. Also included should be a
statement on why your research is significant or enlightening to you and your
audience. In order to meet the time constraint, please choose only pertinent details
from your project. You can use any props or aids that you desire to enliven your
presentation.
● At least 5 resourse
● Paper should be 25% based on research, 75% own writing and thought
