Research Paper
Composition II (ENGL 1213): Research Paper
We have completed research and some preparatory writing about our technology topics. Now, you will use that work to draft the major research paper for this course.
Paper Requirements:
Compose an argumentative research paper on a topic related to technology
Include a contextualizing introduction paragraph and a summary conclusion paragraph
Have an arguable, scaffolded thesis statement (three points: explanation, argument, and outcomes/implications) with body paragraphs that align with the thesis and that are appropriately developed (at least 5-6 sentences per paragraph)
Discuss each point, using at least two body paragraphs per point and including at least two source for support for each point
Begin body paragraphs with topic sentences that include transition words or phrases
Cite and reference at least six sources using APA format
Additional sources allowed, as long as they are documented appropriately using APA format
Use correct grammar and mechanics, as well as vocabulary appropriate for a college-level assignment
❗Papers 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,
Analyze college-level readings,
Select appropriate and varied sources for college research,
Synthesize ideas of other scholars,
Use information reliably and persuasively,
Apply the principles of evidence-based research processes and methodologies, and
Formulate a writing process that includes planning, drafting, revising, and editing.
Research Paper Rubric
|
|
1-5 Points |
6-7 Points |
8-9 Points |
10 Points |
|
Introduction |
Introduction not present |
Introduction present, underdeveloped |
Introduction present, appropriately developed, does not contain sufficient contextual information |
Introduction present, appropriately developed, containing thorough contextual information |
|
Thesis Statement |
Thesis statement not present, not arguable, or not scaffolded |
Scaffolded, arguable thesis statement present but does not contain three points |
Scaffolded, arguable thesis statement present, contains three points |
Scaffolded, highly arguable thesis statement present, contains three points |
|
Body Paragraph Alignment |
Body paragraphs do not align with thesis statement |
|
Body paragraphs align with thesis statement |
|
|
Body Paragraph Development |
Body paragraphs significantly underdeveloped (1-2 sentences) |
Body paragraphs underdeveloped (3-4 sentences) |
Body paragraphs appropriately developed (5-6 sentences) |
Body paragraphs appropriately developed, including comprehensive or thoughtful detail |
|
Evidence/ Source Support |
Evidence/source support not present for any point or for only one point |
Evidence/source support present for two points |
Evidence/source support present for three points |
Evidence/source support present for three points, thoughtfully integrated |
|
Transitions/ Topic Sentences |
Transitions/topic sentences not present |
Transitions/topic sentences present in at least one body section |
Transitions/topic sentences present in at least two body sections |
Transitions/topic sentences present in all body sections |
|
Conclusion |
Conclusion not present |
Conclusion present, underdeveloped |
Conclusion present, appropriately developed |
Conclusion present, appropriately developed, including comprehensive or thoughtful detail |
|
Sources |
0-2 sources present |
3-4 sources present |
5-6 sources present |
Six sources present, including at least four with strong credibility |
|
APA |
No attempt at APA format |
Attempt at APA format, pervasive errors |
Attempt at APA format, minor errors |
Attempt at APA format, very minor errors |
|
Grammar/ Mechanics/ Vocab |
|
Pervasive errors or inappropriate vocabulary |
Minor errors |
Very minor errors |
Sample Research Paper Outline
Introduction that ends with a scaffolded thesis statement with three points (explanation, argument, outcomes/implications)
Body paragraph #1 (supports first point (explanation) and includes source evidence)
Body paragraph #2 (continues to support first point (explanation) and includes source evidence)
Body paragraph #3 (supports second point (argument) and includes source evidence)
Body paragraph #4 (continues to support second point (argument) and includes source evidence)
Body paragraph #5 (supports third point (outcomes/implications) and includes source evidence)
Body paragraph #6 (continues to support third point (outcomes/implications) and includes source evidence)
Conclusion that restates the argument and summarizes your points
