Research Essay Assignment

Contemporary Literature Research Essay

Prompt:  Over the course of the year, we have read literature that examines the core areas of human existence: religion, violence, love, sexuality, morality, social acceptance/friendship, aesthetics, parenting, identity, justice, class, education, etc.  We read about these things to spark deeper thinking or curiosity about these topics.  As a capstone writing experience, you are to research a topic of interest to you and compose your thoughts into a coherent essay on the topic, making clear connections to the way this topic relates to these core areas of human existence.  The essay may be persuasive (taking an active stance on the topic) or expository (analyzing a topic from various viewpoints). 

The length of this essay is NOT predetermined, but it seems entirely unlikely that you’ll be able to finish it in fewer than 5 pages.  Please limit your writing to no more than ten pages.

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Details:

1. This project must be completely typed and should follow the format guide on my website
2. There are four final elements to this project:

1.     five pages of notes taken as you read – an annotated article may count as 1 page of notes (three maximum)

2.     a paper

3.     an annotated bibliography

4.     a presentation to the class

3. Failure to document correctly will result in either a lesser grade or a zero, depending on the severity of the documentation problems.
4. You will need a minimum of 9 credible sources
• At least 1 book – to be read in its entirety (at least the portions with bearing on your topic)
• No fewer than 2 periodicals
• No more than 4 websites
5. All documentation will be done in MLA style, meaning that there must be both in-text citations and a bibliography page at the end.
6. You will be required to submit no fewer than 5 full pages of notes (one side) as part of your rough draft. 

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Due dates: 

• Annotated bibliography:  Friday, May 6^th                               (50 points)
• Rough Draft with notes:  Thursday, May 14^th                 (50 points)
• Final Draft:  Friday, May 20^th                                             (100 points)
• Presentation:  Thursday, May 19^th                                   (50 points)