Unit II Research Paper Topic
Writing Stage 1

Writing a research paper is a process that involves time spent developing analysis on a given topic. In this class, the research will be about an economic issue on the local, state, or federal level. This economic issue will be related to the functioning of government. Review the research paper requirements located in Unit VII before starting this step on the writing process.
When picking a topic, it is suggested to pick a level of government to study (local, state, or national/federal) AND an economic issue relating to this level of government. It can be, but not limited to, taxes, legislation, social programs, and rights and laws. Multiple levels of government can be used to study this economic/political issue.
Once you have selected your topic, complete the following:

•  Compose a thesis statement.

o A thesis statement is one sentence that outlines the purpose and argument of your paper. Determining your thesis now will help you to focus your research when selecting your outside sources.
o Thesis example: The purpose of this paper is to examine how the current federal budget influences the running of the Veterans Administration on the local/state/federal level.

•  Explain your topic, including what you plan to research and questions you have.
• Include three outside resources you will use in your research paper and an explanation of how you will use them.

Include the APA reference for each source followed by the explanation.
This research paper topic should be a minimum of two pages in length, not including the title and reference pages. Remember this process is academic, so ensure the use of proper APA standards for formatting and citing/referencing. Format your research paper topic by using headings for the criteria above (your thesis statement, explanation of topic, and outside sources should be under separate headings).