The Research Paper: The Introductory Paragraph(s)*
Today, I’d like you to write your introductory paragraph for your research paper (in impeccable MLA style). It should contain a rational set of statements related to the topic at hand, tell me what Africanisms you plan to discuss and contain a thesis (if you can manage one). I’m looking for one page, certainly not more than two pages, for this assignment.
Necessary components:
1. MLA formatting (mandatory).
2. A Title (mandatory).
3. A paragraph (or more) consisting of enough detail to state what you’re writing about. Be clear, be precise, and tell me enough so that I am able to see where you’re going with this project (mandatory).
4. A working thesis (preferable).
5. An MLA-formatted Works Cited page if you cite anything (mandatory).
6. Mandatory requirement: It should be ON TOPIC! (The topic is “Africanisms,” by the way.)
_____________
*Remember that you’re already tasked with using chapter 5 of Herskovits’ The Myth of the Negro Past and the Library of Congress’ video presentation of “The McIntosh County Shouters” as research for writing your paper.
Rubric
Introduction Rubric
Introduction Rubric
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Is it Topical?
Is this introduction based on the topic proposed for this paper, “Africanisms”?
5 pts
Yes, Indeed
4 pts
Almost There
3 pts
Sort of
It is somewhat on topic
2 pts
Not really
This is either difficult to follow or fully connect to the topic at hand
1 pts
Not on topic
It is on a topic, but not the topic of the proposed paper as it should be.
0 pts
No Marks
0 pts
Not at all
These words either don’t form a coherent topic or nothing exists for this assignment.
5 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Is it a Paragraph of Material?
Did you write at the length, breadth, and depth at which I tasked you with doing?
10 pts
Yes, indeed.
8 pts
Almost there
It is a bit too brief or it doesn’t have the necessary breadth and depth.
7 pts
Sort of
This is some information, but it is uneven.
6 pts
Not really
There is some writing, but it doesn’t all gel as a coherent project statement.
5 pts
Not on topic/point
I read words here, but I am not sure what those words are alleged to constitute.
0 pts
No Marks
There’s nothing here to grade.
10 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Is there a title?
There should be a specific title beyond “Research Paper.” The title should say something about the content of what you intend to write.
2 pts
Yes
1 pts
It is basic
It is a basic title equivalent of “research paper.”
0 pts
No Marks
There is no title
2 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Is it MLA style?
3 pts
Yes: Full Marks
It is fully and completely MLA style.
2 pts
It is Partially MLA style
It is missing components of MLA style.
1 pts
It is A style
It is a style, but not MLA style. It may even be an idiosyncratic style.
0 pts
No Marks
0 pts
No style
There’s either NO style or there’s nothing here.
3 pts
Total Points: 20
