For full credit: Author directly addresses main question or issue, and adds new insight to the subject not provided in lectures, readings, or class discussions. The author has retained nearly all of the knowledge presented in class. Author is able to synthesize this knowledge in new ways and relate to material not covered in the course.
Paper Requirements: Be sure to meet all the requirements below for your research paper.
Historical Essential Question is clear, specific, and answerable in a 4 to 5-page paper. Its open ended and demonstrates critical thinking. It appears at the top of the research paper underneath the title.
A full introduction is included, ending with the papers thesis. The thesis is clear, specific, and argumentative. It sets the stage for 2-3 major claims which appear in the body paragraphs.
Body paragraphs contain:
2-3 major claims that directly support the thesis statement. They are specific and build the authors
overall argument.
At least 2 reputable sources per claim. A paper with 2 claims would have 4 sources minimum. A paper with 3 claims would have 6 sources minimum. Paper should not overly rely on any one source.
Author establishes source credibility when introducing evidence from the source.
Evidence is well analyzed and serves to build the argument of the paper. Evidence analysis establishes the relevancy of the evidence to the claims of the paper.
Effective use of transitions where appropriate.
Conclusion contains meaningful connections relevant to topic and argument. It revisits the major claims and thesis of the paper, making further connections or clarifying the overall argument of the paper. Conclusion ends the paper effectively.
Paper is 5 pages in length. Its in MLA format with a formal Works Cited attached at the end of the paper.
Paper contains academic language, avoids logical fallacies, and demonstrates a formal style of writing.