Research papers are "used to explain a historical period or event, study a social trend or natural phenomenon, or argue for a position about culture, art, science, technology, or religion" (Sheehan and Paine, Writing Today 305).

For this paper, you will choose one of the many topics listed on Opposing Viewpoints and compose an argumentative research paper on your chosen topic. To access Opposing Viewpoints, click on "Shapiro Library" from your my.snhu page, then click on "Find a Database or Electronic Resource," then click on the "O" tab, and finally, select "Opposing Viewpoints." When on the Opposing Viewpoints homepage, click "Browse Issues." If you wish to pursue a topic not listed on Opposing Viewpoints, please see me.

Your paper should follow the guidelines discussed in class and listed in Chapter 13 of Writing Today. Your paper will need an introduction with a strong thesis statement, several body paragraphs, a thought-provoking conclusion, and a Works Cited page. You will need to cite at least eight (8) sources in your paper. Of those seven eight (8) sources, four (5) must be scholarly articles. One (1) must be a book. Two (2) or more of the sources can be popular. We will discuss the differences between scholarly and popular sources in class. You are not expected to read the entire book-a chapter is fine-but you are expected to read *all* the scholarly articles and popular sources (beginning to end).

You will be working in research groups throughout the month of March to help you with the research and writing processes.

As always, I expect your writing to be polished and purposeful. I also expect your essay to be rhetorically effective-persuasive, engaging, and audience-focused. Your essay should be organized and cohesive, and you should demonstrate an awareness of tone and a concern for style. Most of all, I want to hear YOU on the page.

Your final research paper should be 7-9 pages (double spaced). It must follow MLA style guidelines.