Proposal
Composition II (ENGL 1213): Proposal
As part of the writing process for the research paper, you will compose a short proposal. You will first choose a broad, technology-related topic; then, you will create research questions about that topic; finally, you will briefly discuss the significance of the topic/research questions. These elements will help you move toward a focused thesis statement for the next assignment and, ultimately, for use in the research paper.
Assignment Requirements:
Identify a technology-related topic
Pose at least two possible research questions within the topic
Discuss the significance of the topic and/or question(s) in a well-developed paragraph (5-6 sentences)
Use correct grammar and mechanics, as well as vocabulary appropriate for a college-level assignment
❗Assignments should be double-spaced and use Times New Roman 12pt
Assignment Context and Outcomes: Assignment designed to
Construct academic arguments using sound claims and appropriate evidence and
Formulate a writing process that includes planning, drafting, revising, and editing.
Proposal Rubric
|
|
6-7 Points |
8-9 Points |
10 Points |
|
Topic |
Topic not present or not related to technology |
|
Topic present and related to technology |
|
Research Question #1 |
Research question not present |
|
Research question present |
|
Research Question #2 |
Research question not present |
|
Research question present |
|
Significance |
Significance not present or underdeveloped |
Significance present, appropriately developed |
Significance present, appropriately developed, including comprehensive or thoughtful detail |
|
Grammar/ Mechanics/ Vocab |
Pervasive errors or inappropriate vocabulary |
Minor errors |
Very minor errors |
Sample Proposal
Topic: Technology and the spread of misinformation or disinformation
Research Question #1: What are some effective strategies for combating misinformation or disinformation online?
Research Question #2: How does widespread misinformation or disinformation affect society or specific populations? What are the consequences? Are there any benefits?
Significance: In the past twenty years, with the advent of electronic communication and the global internet, misinformation has become easier to spread. Misinformation can be spread through a misunderstanding of source material and does not always necessarily have a sinister motive. However, misinformation can be intentional, politicized, and dangerous. For example, hundreds of untested “cures” for COVID-19 circulated during the recent pandemic, and that type of misinformation was among the least destructive. Misinformation thrived in the climate of fear, leading to outright conspiracy theories that generated distrust of science, vaccines, and the government, as well as anti-Chinese bigotry and violence. This topic is important to investigate because of the potential threat misinformation poses to societal stability and public health.
