Format: Follow MLA documentation in your book or online (OWL). The text should begin
with the very first page of the report (no separate title page).
Required Sources: You must compile at least five (3) sources to be included on your Works
Cited page. Of these three (3) sources, at least two must be directly quoted from within
your paper, using parenthetical notation to properly attribute the quote to the source.
Rhetorical Strategy: You will include your own ideas in this paper, while using outside
sources, to support those ideas. A research paper should synthesize information gathered from
sources by offering a fresh approach and not simply summarizing.
Point-of-View / Voice: Use 3rd person formal (1st person formal if relating a personal
interview). This paper should include little, if any, mention of personal experience, however,
you may conduct a personal interview relevant to the topic.
Drafts will be due for peer review during class on April 15th, 2024
Tips for Writing Your Paper
Facts vs. Thesis: Avoid beginning the term paper with a statement of fact.
Example of Factual Statement
Families in America are increasingly turning to fast-food restaurants. Instead, use a thesis
statement that allows you to develop your own opinions.
Example of thesis statement
As young families in America increasingly rely on fast-food restaurants, parents should
be more concerned than ever about menu choices that contribute to obesity among school-age
children.
Documentation: To earn at least a “C” or higher, the paper must demonstrate correct
use of MLA documentation. For example, the parenthetical references in the body of the
paper must correspond with entries on the Works Cited page, and vice versa.
Use of quotations: Quote sparingly. To earn at least a “C” or higher, the paper may
include no more than 10% of quoted material. Paraphrase the rest
