ENG 101 – Prof. Buscemi
Research Paper Assignment
Assignment: Write a 4-6 page research paper in which you argue for or against a controversial (debatable) aspect of a current social issue.
In your research paper, you must accomplish the following:
- Argue for one side of the issue
- Refute (argue against) the opposing side of the issue
- Present valid* research to support your side of the issue
- Cite at least 10 valid sources in your Works Cited List and parenthetical references
- Use deductive reasoning to make your argument
- Avoid all logical fallacies
- Avoid plagiarism**
- Document all source information using MLA documentation
*Note on using valid sources:
You must be able to validate your sources. You are advised to use the college’s databases and print resources. Do NOT use Google.
**Note on avoiding plagiarism:
- Do NOT use a source in your paper without citing it in a parenthetical reference and listing it in your Works Cited list.
- Do NOT use the exact words from a source without quoting it directly, citing it in a parenthetical reference, and listing it in your Works Cited list.
- Do NOT paraphrase or summarize a source without citing it in a parenthetical reference and listing it in your Works Cited list.
- Make sure all of your sources listed in your Works Cited list are cited in a parenthetical reference at least once in your paper.
Format:
4-6 pages (NOT including the outline)
Double-spaced
Times New Roman
Heading with your name, course name, professor’s name, and date
Relevant title on first page (beneath heading). Title should reflect your thesis.
Number the pages
In addition to your finished research paper, you must HAND IN:
- A formal outline that includes your thesis statement, supporting points, and evidence
- Highlighted copies of the sources you used in your research paper
