Assignment Instructions Final research paper

Research Paper: There is a final research paper. This paper must be relevant to course concepts, theories, and politics or public policy. All paper topics must be selected with the professor's approval.

The paper should be approximately 10 pages, double-spaced, using Arial 12" font in Turabian style format.

For your final paper, you will select a topic that pertains to a relevant policy, political issue or process.

By relevant I am referring to two things: (1) contemporary and (2) related to a concept or theoretical discussion from this course (i.e. diversity, race, gender, civil right, civil liberties, political culture, equality, etc.) With regard to (1) contemporary, you may take a historical perspective on an issue if you are able to give it meaning and significance for today.

Suggestions to consider:

1. Think of a concept or theoretical issue we have discussed in class. Conversely, you may think of a political issue, policy, or case, and work backward, giving it some conceptual or theoretical grounding.

2. Then, think of a social example of this concept or theory. This example is more than likely associated with some sort of policy, political, or legal issue in the United States.

3. Your policy issue does not have to be a policy in place. It may be a social or political issue that is in proposal or discussion. In other words, it may be simply part our national discourse.

Paper organization:

• Introduction: Introduce your concept/theory. Offer a brief discussion and/or pro/con arguments/positions on this concept/theory

• Then, tell us what your example(s) and policy-related issues

• Thesis statement: Offer your research question, position and/or argument, as well as how you will proceed

• Research findings

• Critical analysis of findings

• Conclusion

Paper format:

• Your paper should be approximately 8-10 pages, double-spaced in Arial or Times New Roman font. Your citations and references should be in Turabian style format.

• Additionally, create a PowerPoint (PPT) Slideshow Presentation that highlights your final paper (use the paper organization bullets as your guide for slide titles). This will be submitted to the forum section of the classroom for your classmates to review and provide feedback.