Overview:
In this assignment, you will write a research-based essay that explores a topic of interest related to our course themes. Your goal is to develop a clear, arguable thesis and support it with credible sources. This paper should demonstrate your ability to:
• Ask meaningful questions
• Conduct academic research
• Evaluate and synthesize sources
• Develop a coherent argument
• Write with clarity, structure, and purpose
Topic Selection
Choose a topic that connects to our course themes and allows for inquiry and debate. Your topic should be:
•Focused enough to explore in depth
•Open-ended enough to invite multiple perspectives
•Relevant to your interests or experiences
Research Requirements
You must use at least 5 credible sources, including:
•2 scholarly articles (from library databases)
•1 book or book chapter
•2 additional sources (news articles, interviews, websites, etc.)
All sources must be cited in-text and in a Works Cited or References page.
Formatting (Change to Heading2)
Length: 5–7 pages (approx. 1500–2000 words)
Format: MLA (includes a title page)
Evaluation Criteria
Your paper will be assessed based on
•Thesis & Argument (20%)
•Use of Sources (20%)
•Organization & Coherence (20%)
•Style & Voice (15%)
•Correctness & Formatting (15%)
•Engagement with Counterarguments (10%)
