Eng 102
Research Essay Final:
A research essay contains a thesis that answers the main question. It develops that thesis through several paragraphs until it has a cogent and evidence-based argument.
Above all, I value clarity. I value clarity of language and clarity of thought. You will not be graded on the position you take on any issue in this class, only in how well you express yourself while defending your position.
In our previous papers, we talked about mistakes propagated by the media and the way the mistakes changed the past. In our various in-class writings, we talked about what sort of things you would do to change present day America, and how that would reshape the current policies of society. In this paper, you are looking toward the future. You are answering the question “What is the single biggest change that will happen to American society in the next fifty years?”
To predict the future, you have to analyze the present and the past. What will change and what trends will not last? Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the direction that the country is going?
Do not mention technology. Don’t just say a new invention will be the biggest change without explaining why that invention is plausible and impactful. You have to talk about trends. You have to talk about the way one change will cause another.
We will study several lines of futurist thought over the next few weeks to see how others have tried to understand the future. We will examine the different medias and mediums that will change over that time. They can also serve as your sources.
Remember that you are advocating for a single position. What is the main change you think will happen in fifty years (and what changes will happen because of the main change). Don’t list everything that you predict. You are predicting one single position that you think marks the biggest change, explaining why you feel that way, and talking about how it could conceivably happen. It is okay to challenge yourself and your beliefs. This takes a good amount of research.
You need to cite at least 7 different sources and the paper should be 5-6 pages. YOU NEED TO HAVE IN-TEXT CITATIONS
Keep the following factors in mind:
Be sure you back up any assertions with evidence or examples including, possibly, quotes
Make sure you have a clear thesis statement early in the paper
You are encouraged to use several different mediums to make up your sources
Use MLA Style
Have a properly done Works Cited Page
Be certain to offer a clearly defined introduction and conclusion, as well as body paragraphs
Keep your paper on topic
Remember to give your work an original title
Proofread the final version carefully before submitting
Follow proper paper format (appropriate heading; double spaced; 12pt Times New Roman font)
