A. Purpose of 1st Half
The goal of this assignment is to develop a working draft of your Criminology topic.
Specifically, the first half represents a comprehensive framework of your introduction and
literature review. The first half the paper should be approximately 8 to 10 pages long. Do not
submit a “rough” draft of your paper. I expect the work submitted will represent what you
believe is the final draft of the introduction and literature review, and it will be graded as such.
B. Rationale of Policy Paper: In your policy paper, you will need to explain why you choose a topic. For example, why is your
research topic important; or what practical solutions/lessons can we learn from your research
topic? A successful policy paper convinces the reader to consider the topic and pursue a course
of action. The suggested policies must address the implications of your topic; the consequences
if we fail to address your topic and the benefits to associated with your topic.
C. First Half Outline
1. Title Page
2. Introduction (1 page)
a.) What is your thesis statement? Hint: A thesis statement clearly articulates your topic
and major argument.
b.) Why is the problem important? Why should we care?
c.) Please provide a brief outline of your paper.
3. Literature Review (8-10 pages)
a.) What does the literature say about your Criminology topic?
b.) What questions and/or themes surface in the literature?
c.) How does the literature support your thesis statement?
The topic of my paper is: Mass Incarceration and Mental Health.
