SENIOR
Mini Senior Project
Packet
[pic]
PLAINEDGE HIGH SCHOOL
2019-2020
Name _______________________________
English 11
Mrs. Garcia and Mrs. Medina
Table of Contents
Overview Pages 3-4
Tips for Becoming an Expert Researcher Pages 5-6
Databases Pages 7-8
Research Proposal Worksheet Page 9
Research Proposal Sample Page 10
Thesis Statement Page 11
Evaluation Tool Sample Pages 12-13
Evaluation Tool #1 Pages 14-15
Evaluation Tool #2 Pages 16-17
Evaluation Tool #3 Pages 18-19
How to Develop a Research Question Page 20
Initial Research Questions Page 21
Outline Page 22
How to Write an Introduction Page 23
Research Paper Format Page 24
Paraphrasing Page 25
Parenthetical Citation Cheat Sheet Page 26
Sample Reference List Page 27
APA Reference List Format Page 28-29
Paper Checklist Page 30
Paper Grading Sheet Page 31
Presentation Guidelines Page 32
Presentation Rubric Page 33
What is the Mini Senior English Paper and Presentation?
The Mini Senior English Paper and Presentation can be viewed as a “coming together” of the skills that you have been developing throughout the course of your middle and high school educational experience (reading, writing, research, critical thinking, presenting, and independent learning). The paper will be completed in several steps which will be outlined in your quarter syllabi. PLEASE NOTE: This is not a report!
The Paper (Due upon presentation)
The research paper will count as two test grades for the third quarter. You must include a cover page with your thesis statement on it. Your paper will be written on a topic of your choice that has been approved by your teacher. Keep in mind that this paper will be written in several steps so you should never feel overwhelmed. The process of writing this paper will consist of small tasks assigned throughout. No one should be writing this paper the night before it’s due.
A high quality paper:
• Is well-written, well-organized, and is completely free of grammatical/mechanical errors.
• Uses language that is engaging and sophisticated.
• Incorporates research (via citations) that is relevant and varied.
• Sheds “new light” on the subject. It must go above and beyond a simple report.
• Provides critical analysis based on the research.
• Is written in MLA format and contains a properly formatted “Works Cited” page (see attached).
As far as sources are concerned, it is definitely in your best interest to consult a number of sources since this will provide you with an expanded perspective on your subject. REMINDER: Encyclopedias are not acceptable sources. The following is a list of potential sources that can be used for this project:
• Research journals and books
• Accredited Internet sites (no personal web pages)
• Additional non-fiction print sources where relevant.
A Word on Plagiarism (see rules and policies)
It goes without saying that plagiarism will not be tolerated. If it is determined that a student is guilty of plagiarism, that student will receive an automatic zero for the paper. There will be no chance to re-do a plagiarized paper for a passing grade. If you are unsure of how to cite sources, please see your English teacher. In addition, an MLA style works cited guide can be found at the back of this packet so that you may refer to it as you are writing your paper.
The Presentation
Each of you will be given 15 minutes to present your project to the class. Presentations will take place in the third quarter and will count as two test grades. Your presentation should:
• be creative and should keep the audience engaged throughout.
• run 15 minutes. You should defend your thesis for 10 minutes, but you may include a brief Do Now, a short pertinent video, and relevant class discussion at the end of your presentation to reach the 15-minute mark.
• run a minimum of 10 minutes – failure to do so will result in a failing grade
• teach the class about your topic and defend your thesis through facts.
• be compatible to PHS – see Ms. Nycz or Ms. Vidal.
Please do not worry about presenting. When the time comes, you will have so much information and will be so well-versed on your subject that you will easily fill the time. Also, each of you will meet with your English teacher to discuss your presentation and to come up with a game plan.
Grading Procedures
Several assignments will be given throughout the quarter to help keep you on track with the overall project. Remember that the paper and presentation count as two test grades each.
Reminders
• I will choose the topic of my project and will not be assigned a topic.
• I will choose the day that I present well in advance of the presentation.
• I understand that a plagiarized paper will result in an automatic zero.
• I understand that my paper will not be graded unless it has been submitted to before my class period the day the paper is due and that after three class days, the paper will not be accepted. In addition, the receipt from must be stapled to my paper.
• I understand that if I am not in class the day I selected to present, I will receive a zero for the presentation.
• I understand that if I do not meet the minimum time requirements for the presentation (10 minutes), I will not pass the presentation.
• I understand that there are no make-ups for the presentation. I have one chance to successfully complete the presentation.
Tips for Becoming an Expert Researcher
• Think about the words you use: keywords, synonyms, related words, phrases
• Write down ALL of your search terms
• Use "Boolean operators" (AND, OR, NOT)
• Use the Advanced search feature
• Use "quotation marks" for phrase searching & * for wild card searches
• Consult ALL available sources: library databases, specialized databases, internet, and books (both public & school library, & interlibrary loan)
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Planning Your Search
Example: How effective are drug abuse programs for young people?
| |Concept #1 |Concept #2 |Concept #3 |Concept #4 |
|OR |teen* |"drug abuse" |prevention |effective |
|OR |adolesc* |marijuana |programs |success |
|OR |children |alcohol |treatment | |
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Information Sources Checklist
Databases:
1) PHS Library Databases
SIRS Gale
Infotrac ProQuest
Opposing Viewpoints
CQ Researcher
Facts on File-Issues & Controversies
Facts on File - Today's Science
News bank
JSTOR (scholarly articles)
2) Public Library Databases
3) Specialized Databases for your topic
ERIC (for anything having to do with education)
PubMed (for anything health related)
Internet:
Google
Google News
Google Scholar
Official Websites
Books:
Public Library ()
PHS OPAC
Google Books
Amazon
Exploring a Topic
1) If you don't know anything about your topic, do a quick internet search (for general info & to get ideas)
• Write down any keywords or phrases that are relevant to the topic
2) Try a Google News search to see what is happening with this topic in the news
• A lot of news articles will cite current studies, reports, and experts in the field (you can then search for the actual studies or contact/email experts)
3) Search for articles by checking all the PHS Library databases
• Once you have the correct database keywords, try the advanced search to find more specific information
• Every database has a different specialty. Try them all or ask the librarian which one is appropriate for your topic.
4) Search for reliable websites
• Try an advanced Google search to find .gov, .edu, & official websites
5) Search for scholarly journal articles
• Search Google Scholar for more scholarly articles
o Try an advanced Google Scholar search if you need to refine your search
• Search JSTOR (PHS database)
• Search a specialized database
6) Search for books
• Check the PHS library, public library, & Google Books
Databases
> Go to
> Click Plainedge High School > Click Library Media Center > Go to Links & Click Databases
|Database |URL |Type of Information |
|SIRS | |Articles on debatable topics with |
| |username - NY0062H |pro/con & questions for each issue |
| |password - 22657 |(controversial topics) |
|Opposing Viewpoints | |Covers many hot topics & social issues|
| | |– includes topic overview, pro/con |
|(Novel) |**you can listen to articles on this database |views, academic articles, and more |
| |** no password needed | |
|CQ Researcher | |Reports on leading issues |
| |username – plainedge101 |(20-30 pages) |
| |password – cqel | |
|Facts on File | |Mini reports (4-5 pages) & articles |
| |Issues & Controversies / Today’s Science | |
| |login – plainedge | |
| |password - L1brary | |
|NewsBank | |Newspaper articles |
| |username – 6433 |(from the U.S. & world) |
| |password – 6433 | |
|JSTOR | (first link – use this link to |Scholarly articles JSTOR |
| |register & create login & password) | |
| |----------------------------------------------------------------- | |
| |(second link – use this link after you register) | |
|Infotrac | |Articles |
| |username – plainedgehs | |
| |password – plainedge | |
| |infotrac.itweb/nysl_li_plainhs |Articles |
|Gale |login (if prompted) - nysl_li_plainhs | |
| |password - empirelink | |
|(Novel) | | |
|ProQuest | |Articles – Novel database |
| |login - 4JM3RR6X2F | |
|(Novel) |password - welcome | |
|World Book | |Online encyclopedia |
| |username – plainedgehs | |
| |password - plainedge | |
|Grolier | |Encyclopedia, articles, video |
| |login from home - nystate831 | |
|(Novel) |password from home - novelhome | |
PLAINEDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY
ACCESSING LIBRARY-RELATED DATABASES FROM HOME OR SCHOOL
Plainedge Public Library cardholders in good standing who have Internet access through any service provider can use the following databases online:
Ebsco/Ebsco Espanol: Search for general magazine and newspaper articles. Contains full text and/or abstracts.
Facts On File: Search for articles on current events.
Reference USA: Search for people and companies (Your password is the barcode on the reverse-side of your library card.)
SIRS (Social Issues Resource Series) (Your customer # is NY0211H and Password is 11758) A general reference database containing thousands of full-text articles on social issues, such as Family, Health, Human Relations, etc.
Grolier Online: Search the world’s most respected online encyclopedia and reference sources.
: Search for information on all aspects of music.
: Search for information on all aspects of art.
Learn-A-: Your leading source for interactive practice exams and test preparation materials including academic, civil service and other assorted exams. Site also includes educational courses.
Heritage Quest: Search the most comprehensive collection of genealogical information available anywhere.
Here’s how to do it:
• Start your web browser and type in the address field:
then press enter.
• Under databases, click on “Adult/Young Adult”
• Choose a database category
• At “Enter network password”, enter “Public” at “User Name” and first 5 digits of your library card number in “Password” box.
• Select database of your choice.
If you have a public library card you can borrow materials from any library in Nassau County, through Interlibrary Loan.
To search the Nassau County Library System for books or others materials go to:
The advanced search tab allows you to limit your search to a particular library or type of information.
Research Proposal Worksheet
In order to begin researching a topic, you must first propose or advise us of your intentions for the project. In a paragraph, you will let us know the following: what the general topic is that you have chosen; you will give us what argument on which you would like to focus; you will tell us what the counterargument could be; you will tell us what you want to learn about your topic; and you will tell us why you chose this topic. This worksheet must be completed and then this must be typed and submitted to .
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Research Proposal Sample
The general topic that I would like to research for my mini senior research project is childhood beauty pageants. This topic is extremely interesting to me because I have heard some people argue that these pageants promote self-esteem and social awareness in young girls. They are venues in which children can display their talents, learn how to present themselves in public, and earn money for college. Sounds harmless, right? I disagree with the entire concept of childhood beauty pageants and I would like to see them banned. My initial argument on which I would like to focus is how these pageants promote hypersexualization in young children and put kids on display and in situations that are inappropriate for their ages. I would also like to argue how these pageants allow parents to live vicariously through their children and to push them to do things that they may not want to do. My goal for this project is to prove that although beauty pageants seem harmless, they are extremely damaging to young children. Although this topic interests me, there is a lot of information that I need to learn. What are the regulations of beauty pageants? Do they have any requirements and rules in place? What are the inappropriate behaviors that are learned at the pageants? What are the psychological effects of childhood beauty pageants on the contestants in both the short term and long term? What are the social effects of these pageants on the children? What are the social and/or economic benefits of these pageants? Have any changes been made to pageants in light of the death of Jon Benet Ramsey? How have shows like “Honey Boo-Boo” and “Toddlers and Tiaras” helped or hurt the image of beauty pageants? I chose this topic because I have always been repulsed and slightly offended when I see young girls dressed up in provocative costumes with tons of makeup flirting their way across the stage. I believe it is irresponsible of these parents to encourage their young girls to act like adults and take away their childhood. Kids should be out running around and climbing trees, not getting spray tans and putting in flippers. It is time to ban these ridiculous practices and allow kids to be kids again.
Thesis Statement
When faced with a controversial question or dilemma—in school or at work—you can do research to find out more about the problem. In time, you will discover enough information to form your own opinion, or argument, on the question. The thesis statement is your entire argument summarized into one sentence.
A thesis statement is NOT
• a question
• a fact
• a topic
Criteria for a thesis statement
• It must be an opinion that needs to be proven
Check Yourself: Would anyone bother to argue against you?
• It must be an opinion that can be proven
Check Yourself: Could you find facts to back this up?
• It should be focused, answering a specific question
Check Yourself: Is this something you could argue at length?
• It should be one sentence and crystal clear
Check Yourself: Could anyone find this slightly confusing?
Examples of thesis statements
• Despite the fact that many parents oppose vaccinations for religious reasons, these vaccinations should be mandatory since they help control deadly diseases.
• Although some feel that government surveillance programs protect citizens, they lead innocent people to suffer unjust punishments and should be abolished.
• Although the donation of organs is a generous and selfless act, donors must be paid to increase the number of organs available and decrease the number of illegal organs sold on the black market.
Evaluation Tool #1
Name JOHN SMITH
Date MARCH 22, 2016
Research Topic CHILD BEAUTY PAGEANTS
Name of Site SKS.
Article Title “PAGEANTS REEKING OF BLATANT EXPLOITATION”
Article Author(s) MELINDA TANKARD REIST
OR
Book Title __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Book Author(s) ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Directions: For each question under credibility and accuracy, place an x in the appropriate box. All answers should be in the YES column for this to be a viable resource. If a NO is checked, a conference must be held with the teacher and a strong case made as to why this source should be allowed in the research paper. Next, you will summarize the article in box 1 (three sentences) and use at least four examples of textual evidence (parenthetical documentation) to show the topic of the article in box 2. In addition, you will highlight and annotate the article.
| Credibility: |YES |NO |
|1) Is there a reputable author, organization, or agency that takes credit for the information? |X | |
|2) Is the tone of the source free of humor, sarcasm, and informal language? |X | |
|3) Is the source free of careless errors/editing (documents without dates, misspelled words, bad grammar, etc.)? |X | |
|4) Is the source age-appropriate for a high school research paper? |X | |
|Accuracy: |YES |NO |
|1) Is the information objective (not obviously biased)? |X | |
|2) Is the information factually based (supportable with facts, not pure opinion)? |X | |
|3) Is the information up-to-date? |X | |
|Summary: |
|THIS ARTICLE ADDRESSES THE DARK SIDE OF THE BEAUTY PAGEANT WORLD. YOUNG CHILDREN ARE MISSING OUT ON THEIR CHILDHOODS AND BEING TURNED INTO SEXUALIZED DOLLS. THESE |
|PAGEANTS SEND THE WRONG MESSAGE TO YOUNG GIRLS THAT PHYSICAL BEAUTY IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING. |
|Textual Evidence: |
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|1) “EVERYWHERE THEY LOOK GIRLS RECEIVE A MESSAGE THAT PHYSICAL APPEARANCE IS WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT ABOUT BEING A WOMAN” (REIST, 2015). |
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|YOUNG GIRLS ARE BEING INTRODUCED TO A WORLD WHERE PHYSICAL BEAUTY GETS THEM EVERYWHERE, WHICH IS A FAR CRY FROM THE REALITY OF LIFE. |
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|2) “AN OVER-EMPHASIS ON LOOKS AND ATTRACTIVENESS LEADS TO NEGATIVE BODY IMAGE, DISORDERED EATING, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND LOW SELF-ESTEEM” (REIST, 2015). |
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|THERE IS ALREADY SO MUCH PRESSURE ON YOUNG GIRLS AND ADOLESCENTS TO LOOK PERFECT AND ALLOWING THESE PAGEANTS TO CONTINUE FOSTERS THE IMPOSSIBLE ATTAINMENT OF THE |
|PERFECT BODY IMAGE. THIS IMPOSSIBILITY HAS FAR REACHING IMPLICATIONS THAT COULD MEAN A LIFETIME OF STRUGGLE. |
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|3) “ALTERING THEIR BODIES, SOCIALIZING THEM IN THE IMPORTANCE OF “LOOKISM”, SETTING THEM UP TO BE MEASURED AGAINST OTHER GIRLS AND JUDGED, AND TEACHING THEM THAT |
|THE MORE THEY CAN FLIRT, APPEAR PROVOCATIVE AND COY AND MOVE THEIR BODIES IN SEXUAL WAYS, THE MORE TROPHIES, CROWNS, FAME AND MONEY THEY WILL EARN, IS ABUSIVE OF |
|GIRLS’ PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH” (REIST, 2015). |
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|CHILD BEAUTY PAGEANTS DO MORE HARM THAN GOOD. THEY CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE OF COMPETITION AND ENCOURAGE FEMALES TO JUDGE OTHERS. THIS CYCLE IS DETRIMENTAL TO BOTH THE|
|MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELL BEING OF GIRLS. |
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|4) “’A SIGNIFICANT ASSOCIATION BETWEEN CHILDHOOD BEAUTY-PAGEANT PARTICIPATION AND INCREASED BODY DISSATISFACTION, DIFFICULTY TRUSTING INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS, |
|AND GREATER IMPULSIVE BEHAVIORS, AND INDICATES A TREND TOWARDS INCREASED FEELINGS OF INEFFECTIVENESS’” (REIST, 2015). |
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|NOT ONLY WILL PARTICIPATING IN THESE PAGEANTS DESTROY A PERSON’S SELF IMAGE, BUT IT WILL ALSO RUIN FUTURE RELATIONSHIPS AND CREATE FEELING OF SELF DOUBT. |
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Evaluation Tool #1
Name _______________________________________________
Date _______________
Research Topic ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Name of Site ________________________________________________________________________________________________
Article Title _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Article Author(s) _____________________________________________________________________________________________
OR
Book Title __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Book Author(s) ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Directions: For each question under credibility and accuracy, place an x in the appropriate box. All answers should be in the YES column for this to be a viable resource. If a NO is checked, a conference must be held with the teacher and a strong case made as to why this source should be allowed in the research paper. Next, you will summarize the article in box 1 (three sentences) and use at least four examples of textual evidence (parenthetical documentation) to show the topic of the article in box 2. In addition, you will highlight and annotate the article.
| Credibility: |YES |NO |
|1) Is there a reputable author, organization, or agency that takes credit for the information? | | |
|2) Is the tone of the source free of humor, sarcasm, and informal language? | | |
|3) Is the source free of careless errors/editing (documents without dates, misspelled words, bad grammar)? | | |
|4) Is the source age-appropriate for a high school research paper? | | |
|Accuracy: |YES |NO |
|1) Is the information factually based (supportable with facts, not pure opinion)? | | |
|2) Is the information up-to-date? | | |
|Summary: |
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Evaluation Tool #2
Name _______________________________________________
Date _______________
Research Topic ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Name of Site ________________________________________________________________________________________________
Article Title _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Article Author(s) _____________________________________________________________________________________________
OR
Book Title __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Book Author(s) ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Directions: For each question under credibility and accuracy, place an x in the appropriate box. All answers should be in the YES column for this to be a viable resource. If a NO is checked, a conference must be held with the teacher and a strong case made as to why this source should be allowed in the research paper. Next, you will summarize the article in box 1 (three sentences) and use at least four examples of textual evidence (parenthetical documentation) to show the topic of the article in box 2. In addition, you will highlight and annotate the article.
| Credibility: |YES |NO |
|1) Is there a reputable author, organization, or agency that takes credit for the information? | | |
|2) Is the tone of the source free of humor, sarcasm, and informal language? | | |
|3) Is the source free of careless errors/editing (documents without dates, misspelled words, bad grammar)? | | |
|4) Is the source age-appropriate for a high school research paper? | | |
|Accuracy: |YES |NO |
|1) Is the information factually based (supportable with facts, not pure opinion)? | | |
|2) Is the information up-to-date? | | |
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Evaluation Tool #3
Name _______________________________________________
Date _______________
Research Topic ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Name of Site ________________________________________________________________________________________________
Article Title _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Article Author(s) _____________________________________________________________________________________________
OR
Book Title __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Book Author(s) ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Directions: For each question under credibility and accuracy, place an x in the appropriate box. All answers should be in the YES column for this to be a viable resource. If a NO is checked, a conference must be held with the teacher and a strong case made as to why this source should be allowed in the research paper. Next, you will summarize the article in box 1 (three sentences) and use at least four examples of textual evidence (parenthetical documentation) to show the topic of the article in box 2. In addition, you will highlight and annotate the article.
| Credibility: |YES |NO |
|1) Is there a reputable author, organization, or agency that takes credit for the information? | | |
|2) Is the tone of the source free of humor, sarcasm, and informal language? | | |
|3) Is the source free of careless errors/editing (documents without dates, misspelled words, bad grammar, etc.)? | | |
|4) Is the source age-appropriate for a high school research paper? | | |
|Accuracy: |YES |NO |
|1) Is the information factually based (supportable with facts, not pure opinion)? | | |
|2) Is the information up-to-date? | | |
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How to Develop a Research Question
A research question is a…
• clear
• focused
• concise
• complex
• arguable
…question around which you center your research. The specificity of a well-developed research question helps writers avoid the “all-about” paper and work toward supporting a specific, arguable thesis.
Steps to developing a research question:
1. Start asking questions. Start asking yourself open-ended “how” and “why” questions about your topic. Stay away from “who”, “what”, “where”, and “when” questions as these do not delve deep enough into the topic.
2. Evaluate your questions. After you’ve got a couple of question down on paper, evaluate these questions to realize if they would be effective research questions or if they need more revising.
o Is your research question clear? With so much research available on any given topic, research questions must be as clear as possible in order to be effective in helping the writer direct his or her research.
o Is your research question focused? Research questions must be specific enough to be well covered in the space available.
o Is your research question complex? Research questions should not be answerable with a simple “yes” or “no” or by easily-found facts. They should, instead, require both research and analysis on the part of the writer.
3. Hypothesize. After you’ve come up with a question, think about what the path you think the answer will take. Where do you think your research will take you? What kind of argument are you hoping to make/support? What will it mean if your research disputes your planned argument? At this step, you are well on your way to having a focus for your research, constructing a thesis, and then writing out your argument in a paper.
Sample Research Questions
Unclear: Why are social networking sites harmful?
Clear: How are online users experiencing or addressing privacy issues on such social networking sites as MySpace and Facebook?
The clearer version specifies sites (MySpace and Facebook), the type of harm (privacy issues), and whom the issue is harming (users). A strong research question should never leave room for ambiguity or interpretation.
Initial Research Questions
Name ________________________________
Teacher ______________________________
Period ______
Directions: Complete the worksheet below using as much detail as possible. Question 1 must be on the counterclaim. In addition, you must type your initial research information and staple this worksheet to the back of your typed questions.
Initial Thesis Statement
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Research Questions (You must have 5 questions which cannot be answered with a simple yes or no).
1)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
5)
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Outline
Start with your thesis on top of the page
Make sure your research questions are in the order of your thesis
Turn your research question into a statement – there should be three to four statements
Bullet the quotes that you are going to put in each paragraph - be sure to include the source
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Thesis: Although Wal-Mart has benefitted society, its economically and morally corrupt policies have had a hand in ruining the economy.
I. Wal-Mart does benefit the American people in a few ways. (COUNTERCLAIM)
• “Although they do tend to drive other businesses out, the prices are lower, which helps the consumer” (Engdahl, 2017).
• “The program encourages farms within a day of a Wal-Mart warehouse to grow crops that would normally take days to arrive from other states” (Kummer, 2019).
• “…centralizing and streamlining distribution for farms with limited growing seasons, limited production and limited transportation resources” (Kummer, 2019).
II. The feeble state of the economy is due in part to the corrupt business practices of Wal-Mart. (CLAIM)
• “’people making between thirteen and eighteen dollars an hour. It’s a form of accelerated attrition’” (Goldberg, 2012).
• “In an area where a Wal-Mart is present, the unemployment rate is reduced by 2-4 percent; however, this causes the local wages to decrease by as much as five percent” (Engdahl, 2017).
REMEMBER: THIS IS PART OF AN OUTLINE.
YOUR OUTLINE WILL BE LONGER THAN THIS.
How to Write an Introduction
A clear, concise, well-organized, and engaging introduction will help to efficiently set-up your paper. The introduction must captivate your audience’s attention and interest. Otherwise, the audience may not be convinced to continue reading. Your introduction serves as a preview for the remainder of your paper, conveying necessary background information to your readers, identifying your topic and its significance, and unveiling how you will organize your essay. An effective introduction also establishes your voice as a writer and your point of view towards your topic.
• The introductory paragraph of any paper, long or short, should start with a sentence that piques the interest of your readers.
• In a well-constructed first paragraph, that first sentence will lead into three or four sentences that provide details about the subject or your process you will address in the body of your essay. These sentences should also set the stage for your thesis statement.
• The thesis statement is at the end of the paragraph. The entirety of your paper hangs on that sentence, which is generally the last sentence of your introductory paragraph.
In summary, your introductory paragraph should contain the following:
• an attention-grabbing first sentence
• informative sentences that build to your thesis
• the thesis statement, which makes a claim or states a view that you will support or build upon
Sample introduction
Today, there are many big corporations and chain stores in the United States and throughout the world. Since they are so big, they have a lot of power in the economy. Some big names are Nike, Hanes, and Microsoft. The biggest one however is Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart was founded by Sam Walton, and when he retired in 1988, Wal-Mart had pulled in revenues of sixteen billion dollars (Goldberg 1). Back then, Wal-Mart had a reputation of meeting the needs of their customers with a low price, while treating the employees properly. A lot has changed since 1988 for Wal-Mart. Today, Wal-Mart is the second largest corporation in the world. In 2006, Wal-Mart had revenues of over three hundred and fifteen billion dollars, and its profits came to over eleven billion dollars (Goldberg 1). The reputation also went down. Today, Wal-Mart is known for its poor benefits and treatment of workers. Although Wal-Mart has benefitted society, its economically and morally corrupt policies have had a hand in ruining the economy.
Research Paper’s Format
MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers.
Margins:
Except for page numbers (see below), leave one-inch margins all around the text of your paper – left side, right side, and top and bottom. Paragraphs should be indented half an inch; set-off quotations should be indented an inch from the left margin (five spaces and ten spaces, respectively, on standard typewriters).
Spacing:
The MLA Guide says that “the research paper must be double-spaced,” including quotations, notes, and the list of works cited.
Heading and Title:
Your research paper needs a title page which includes your name, the name of your teacher(s), the date, and your thesis statement. At the top of the first page, at the left-hand margin, type your name, your instructor’s name, the course name and number, and the date – all on separate, double-spaced lines. Then double-space again and center the title above your text. (If your title requires more than one line, double-space between the lines.) Double-space again before beginning your text. The title should be neither underlined nor written in all capital letters. Capitalize only the first, last, and principal words of the title. Titles might end with a question mark or an exclamation mark if that is appropriate, but not in a period.
Page Numbers:
Number your pages consecutively throughout the manuscript (including the first page) in the upper right-hand corner of each page, one-half inch from the top. Type your last name before the page number. Most word processing programs provide for a “running head,” which you can set up as you create the format for the paper, at the same time you are establishing things like the one-inch margins and the double-spacing. This feature makes the appearance and consistency of the page numbering a great convenience. Make sure the page-number is always an inch from the right-hand edge of the paper (flush with the right-hand margin of your text) and that there is a double-space between the page number and the top line of text. Do not use the abbreviation p. or any other mark before the page number.
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Paraphrase: Write it in Your Own Words
()
A paraphrase is...
• your own rendition of essential information and ideas expressed by someone else, presented in a new form.
• one legitimate way (when accompanied by accurate documentation) to borrow from a source.
Paraphrasing is a valuable skill because...
• it helps you control the temptation to quote too much.
• the mental process required for successful paraphrasing helps you to grasp the full meaning of the original.
Steps to Effective Paraphrasing
1. Reread the original passage until you understand its full meaning.
2. Set the original aside, and write your paraphrase on a note card.
3. Jot down a few words below your paraphrase to remind you later how you envision using this material. At the top of the note card, write a key word or phrase to indicate the subject of your paraphrase.
4. Check your rendition with the original to make sure that your version accurately expresses all the essential information in a new form.
5. Use quotation marks to identify any unique term or phraseology you have borrowed exactly from the source.
6. Record the source (including the page) on your note card so that you can credit it easily if you decide to incorporate the material into your paper.
Sample
The original passage:
Students frequently overuse direct quotation in taking notes, and as a result they overuse quotations in the final [research] paper. Probably only about 10% of your final manuscript should appear as directly quoted matter. Therefore, you should strive to limit the amount of exact transcribing of source materials while taking notes. Lester, James D. Writing Research Papers. 2nd ed. (1976): 46-47.
A legitimate paraphrase:
In research papers students often quote excessively, failing to keep quoted material down to a desirable level. Since the problem usually originates during note taking, it is essential to minimize the material recorded verbatim (Lester 46-47).
A plagiarized version:
Students often use too many direct quotations when they take notes, resulting in too many of them in the final research paper. In fact, probably only about 10% of the final copy should consist of directly quoted material. So it is important to limit the amount of source material copied while taking notes.
Parenthetical Citation Cheat Sheet APA Style
Narration
Article with an author “The signs of a deadly struggle remain: Scattered around the houses of the Ebola dead lie empty pill packages, their plastic casings punched through” (Nossiter, 2007).
Article without an author “With two candidates from different factions running to lead the baseball league, a third may emerge as a compromise” (“Vote for…”, 2001).
Print source “He can tell that he has hit a nerve” (Williams, 2014, p. 77).
Already Quoted in the Source
Article with an author “’To my embarrassed relief, the violence was taken off-screen, when prey and predators suddenly dashed up a hill and into obscuring bushes ‘” (Angier, 2017).
Article without an author “’The chances of rallying Iraqis against this threat will be greater with a new government’” (“Iraq Needs…”, 2011).
Print source “‘...you left! I stayed and struggled! You came to New Orleans and looked out for yourself. I stayed at Belle Reve and tried to hold it together’” (Williams, 1996, p. 25).
A Mixture of Narration and Quoted Material
Article with an author “Teachout testified that the tax filings were ‘clearly a mistake’" (Figueroa, 2001).
Article without an author “’It was so sudden and he was such a great guy and it's such a loss to the whole community,’ said Daniel Jennings who lived across the street from Williams in the quiet neighborhood where the actor was often seen riding his bike and stopping to talk to neighbors” (“Robin Williams...”, 2017).
Print source “She enters the bedroom with the drinks and the candle. ‘Sit down! Why don’t you
take off your coat and loosen your collar?’” (Williams, 1997, p. 88).
**PLEASE NOTE: When you cite in your paper, you only have to use the first two words of the article title (unless you have two articles with the same first two words; then, you use as many as will differentiate between the two), BUT you must remember to use the entire title in your reference list page.**
Sample Reference Page
Reference List
Engdahl, K. (2004). Are Chain Stores Ruining America? Detroit: Greenhaven.
Goldberg, J. (2007). Selling Wal-Mart. New Yorker, LXXXII, 32-38. Retrieved from
Kummer, C. (2010). The Great Grocery Smackdown. Atlantic Monthly, 305(2). Retrieved
from
1565707065&accountid=52301
Norris, F. (2007). Paranoia and Bugging at Wal-Mart. Retrieved from
1565708782&accountid=52301
Senser, R. (2010). Don’t Shop Till They Drop. Retrieved from
Worth, R. (2008). Workers' Rights. Tarrytown, NY: Marshall Cavendish Benchmark.
APA Reference List Format
Book (One Author)
Last name, First initial. (Year of publication). Title of work: Capital letter also for subtitle. Location: Publisher.
• Calfee, R. C. (1991). APA guide to preparing manuscripts for journal publication. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Book (Two Authors)
List by their last names and initials. Use the ampersand instead of "and."
• Wegener, D. T., & Petty, R. E. (1994). Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Edited Book, No Author
• Duncan, G. J., & Brooks-Gunn, J. (Eds.). (1997). Consequences of growing up poor. New York, NY: Russell Sage Foundation.
Edited Book with an Author or Authors
• Plath, S. (2000). The unabridged journals. K. V. Kukil (Ed.). New York, NY: Anchor.
Government Document
• National Institute of Mental Health. (1990). Clinical training in serious mental illness (DHHS Publication No. ADM 90-1679). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Report from a Private Organization
• American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Practice guidelines for the treatment of patients with eating disorders (2nd ed.). Washington, DC: Author.
Webpage
Author, A. A. & Author B. B. (Date of publication). Title of page [Format description when necessary]. Retrieved from
• Eco, U. (2015). How to write a thesis [PDF file]. (Farina C. M. & Farina F., Trans.) Retrieved from ... (Original work published 1977).
Article from an Online Periodical
Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Date of publication). Title of article. Title of Online Periodical, volume number(issue number if available). Retrieved from
• Bernstein, M. (2002). 10 tips on writing the living web. A List Apart: For People Who Make Websites, 149. Retrieved from
Database
Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Date of publication). Title of article. Title of Journal, volume number(issue number if available), page range. Retrieved from
• Smyth, A. M., Parker, A. L., & Pease, D. L. (2002). A study of enjoyment of peas. Journal of Abnormal Eating, 8(3), 120-125. Retrieved from
Newspaper Article
Author, A. A. (Year, Month Day). Title of article. Title of Newspaper. Retrieved from
• Parker-Pope, T. (2008, May 6). Psychiatry handbook linked to drug industry. The New York Times. Retrieved from
***If you are using a source that is not listed here, please refer to the Purdue Online Writing Lab website
**
Mini Senior Paper Checklist
_____ Cover sheet with your name, teacher(s) name(s), thesis statement
_____ Paper is at least 2 FULL pages long
_____ Font is Times New Roman size 12
_____ 1” margins
_____ Double space paper
_____ Required heading is present
John Smith
Mrs. Garcia/Mrs. Medina
English 12
21 November 2016
_____ Page numbers have your last name and page number in upper right corner (Garcia 2)
_____ Submitted to Turnitin BEFORE class on the day you present
_____ Receipt stapled to front of paper
_____ At least three sources are used in the paper
_____ Citations are formatted correctly (see page 26 in packet) REMEMBER: cite either by the author’s last name (if there is one) OR by first few words of the title in quotes
“blah blah blah” (Johnson, 2017).
“’blah blah blah’” (“The World According…”, 2010).
_____ Each source in the reference list is in the paper and each source in the paper is in the reference list
_____ Reference list page is the last one in your paper
_____ Reference list page is formatted as follows:
Double spaced
Alphabetized
Every line after the 1st is indented
NO bullets or numbers
_____ Paper follows the following order: receipt, cover page, paper, reference list
Mini Senior Project Paper
Name _____________________________
Date due __________
Date submitted __________
Paper was submitted to ______
_____ (6 points) Mechanics:
• Cover sheet is present and includes your name, teacher’s name(s), and the thesis statement
• Paper is typed and 2-3 pages
• Font is Times New Roman 12
• Margins are 1” on all sides
• Paper has the proper heading and page numbers
• Paper has been submitted to
_____ (15 points) Parenthetical documentation is formatted correctly.
_____ (3 points) Citations are intermixed with the writer’s words, are not randomly placed in the paper, and support the thesis.
_____ (8 points) The reference list page is present and formatted correctly.
_____ (3 points) The research contains a minimum of three sources.
_____ (5 points) Each source that appears on the reference list page is used in the paper and vice versa.
|DIMENSION |60-55 |54-40 |39-25 |24-0 |
|Research Skills |Chooses a thought-provoking, |Chooses a relevant topic, but |Topic chosen is appropriate. |Has chosen an appropriate topic,|
| |relevant topic. |focus may be too broad or too |Formulated questions lack focus, |but lacks focus. |
| |Searches for answers to |limited |depth. |Research does not adequately |
| |well-developed questions. |Research addresses essential |Demonstrates understanding of |address essential questions. |
| |Has a clear, specific thesis. |questions. |subject. |Demonstrates superficial |
| |Demonstrates higher level |Demonstrates critical thinking|Research addresses questions. |understanding. |
| |thinking skills. |skills. |Citation format is generally |Citation format is improper. |
| |Citation format is essentially|Citation format is correct |correct. | |
| |flawless |with a few minor errors. | | |
|Effective Communication |Uses language that is |Uses language that is fluent |Uses appropriate language |Uses language that is imprecise |
| |stylistically sophisticated |Awareness of audience and |Exhibits attempts to vary |or unsuitable for the |
| |Notable sense of voice |purpose |sentence structure with uneven |audience/purpose |
| |Awareness of audience and |Varies sentence structure for |success |Reveals little awareness of how |
| |purpose |effect. |Demonstrates partial control of |to use language and sentence |
| |Varies sentence structure to |Demonstrates control of the |the conventions with occasional |structure to achieve effect. |
| |enhance meaning |conventions exhibiting |errors that do not hinder |Demonstrates errors and lack of |
| |Uses standard English |occasional errors when using |comprehension |control with conventions of |
| |skillfully |sophisticated language |Has a purpose and demonstrates |standard English. |
| |Clearly communicates purpose, |Communicates a clear purpose |awareness of audience |Communicates ideas in a |
| |style and tone | | |disorganized, random fashion |
| |Engages the audience | | |Demonstrates no central purpose.|
|Organization and |Presents information in an |Presents information in an |Presents information in a fairly |Addresses the topic but lacks |
|Development |organized, logical plan |organized, logical plan |well-organized plan |organization |
| |Has as exemplary, thought |Has an effective opening and |Has introduction and conclusion |Has no clear introduction or |
| |provoking opening and |conclusion |Develops ideas briefly, using |conclusion |
| |conclusion |Has transitions |some details from the text |Are incomplete or largely |
| |Transitions from topic to |Develops some ideas more fully| |undeveloped, hinting at ideas, |
| |topic and sentence to sentence|than others, using specific | |but references to the text are |
| |is smooth and skillful |and relevant details from the | |vague, irrelevant, repetitive, |
| |Develops ideas clearly and |text | |or unjustified |
| |fully, making effective use of| | | |
| |a wide range of relevant and | | | |
| |specific details from the text| | | |
Presentation Guidelines
• One slide per minute (more if you are nervous) – Minimum 15 slides
• Slide 1 – Your name, our names, your topic (not thesis), and a picture
• Slide 2 – Do Now (2-3 questions about your topic to get the class thinking about what you are going to present)
• Slide 3 – thesis
• Slides 4 on – take each quote out of your paper (in the order of the paper) and put one quote on each slide
• SLIDE 4 WILL BE COUNTERARGUMENT – first part of your thesis
• Go back and add pictures, graphs, charts, and articles
• ALL pictures must have the link under them (shrink the link and paste it under the picture)
• Reference List is the last slide – it may be the same as the paper (unless you added more citations)
• Keep your background simple so it does not distract
• Make sure your font color can be read on your background
• DO NOT use animations on the slides – too distracting
• You may have note cards to help you
• You may have a video, class discussion and Do Now for NO MORE than 5 minutes
• It is your responsibility to make sure the PPT works and is compatible
• You may save it to a flash drive to work on it here and at home
• Please email a copy of your presentation to us so we can avoid any technical glitches
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Logging on to PHS Databases
Go to
Click "Plainedge High School"
Under General Info Click "Library Media Center"
Under links Click "Databases"
If you need help choosing a database ask the librarian
(user IDs and passwords are on the database sheet)
FINDING BOOKS in the PUBLIC LIBRARY
Go to - to search for public library books
In the "Search Enhanced Catalog" box, type a topic (or title)
If you have a public library card, you may borrow books from any library in Nassau County
FINDING BOOKS in the PHS LIBRARY
Go to
Click "Plainedge High School"
Under General Info click "Library Media Center"
Under Links click "Books"
Click OPAC
Search by title, subject, or author
If you have trouble finding a book source, ask the librarian!
GOOGLE BOOKS
Go to books. Write down the title & author
Check to see if the public library has the book
If not available from public library, email Ms. Vidal the title, author
catherine.vidal@
We can get any book from interlibrary loan (it may take a few days to a few weeks to arrive)
_____ Checklist Skills Grade (out of 40)
_____ Rubric Content Grade (out of 60)
_____ TOTAL PAPER GRADE
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