The Extended Research Paper Part I – 4-page Outline plus sources cited 100 points
I want you to choose a topic for your extended research paper that interests and engages you.
While it must be connected to or inspired by the issues raised in our course text, The Adventure
Gap, you have a broad scope of choice for the subject matter and title. I encourage you to
select a topic that you feel comfortable with, but that will also challenge you. You are welcome
to approach your peers or me for input and advice. Start with a question. For example, James
Edward Mills’ question was, why are so many people who look like me- African Americans-
depriving ourselves of nature? The outline is for you to start thinking seriously about how you
will shape your essay. What form do you want your paper to take? Will it be a formal research
paper, or something more creative, like a personal experiment, an interview or a report?
What information do you want to include? What is relevant and why?
How will you persuade your reader?
Whatever you decide, your outline must be MLA formatted and written in bullet point
form (not a draft) and include:
1. A title that is clear, interesting and engaging
2. An Introduction that identifies your central idea, focuses your essay, and selects key
points, with
An original, interesting opening sentence which explains your topic and why it is
important
A thesis statement that sets out your position
Definition – What is a thesis statement?
A thesis statement appears in the introduction of your essay. It asserts your central idea or
argument, is focused and specific, and informs the reader of the purpose, scope and
direction of your essay. An effective thesis statement requires supporting evidence,
acknowledges possible counter-arguments, and must interest and engage your reader!
Three to Four Main Points
3. For each of your main points, a series of bullet points explaining:
What your main point is and why it is relevant
3-4 examples with supporting evidence
The sources you are using and why
The wider research you have already conducted
Wider questions for yourself – what do you still need to work on?
Wider questions for your reader
Explanation of how you will develop and expand on your main point
4. A Conclusion that includes
Thoughtful and structured conclusion of your topic
Answers questions and ties up loose ends
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Evidence of expanded thinking – you place your topic in context, but ask pertinent
questions of your reader that shows you understand the bigger picture
5. Bibliography/ Sources Cited
At least 5 sources that you plan to use – sources must include one of each of the
following:
Book
Newspaper/magazine article
Internet site (NOT WIKIPEDIA OR GOOGLE)
Court or legal document or scholarly journal
Video/film/documentary/radio report
6. The next steps
What work do you still need to do?
What else do you want to include?
What other material is essential?
What else do you need to research?
The Extended Research Paper Part II – Second Draft 8 pages plus sources cited worth
200 points or 20 % of your overall grade
A member of Minnesota State. Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer. To receive this information in an alternative format, call
763-493-0555 (Voice) or via the Minnesota Relay at 1-800-627-3529.
