Length: 7-8 pages (approx. 2100-2400 words)
The research essay is the main part of the assignment. In the essay you need to develop your argument(s) clearly, provide evidence to support your discussion, and demonstrate the ability to analyze and use sources critically. You are expected to take into account the suggestions made on your proposal and bibliography. You are also required to include a copy of your graded proposal and annotated bibliography with your research assignment. If you change your research topic after feedback from your tutorial leader, please submit copies of both the original and new outlines.
Purpose
This assignment will help you develop your critical reading and analytical skills, engage cross-textual analysis, and develop library and other research skills.
Format
The assignment should be typed, doubled-spaced and have numbered pages. A cover page should include the title of your assignment, your name, and your tutorial leader’s name. Choose a title carefully that will suggest the main ideas of your paper. Your assignment should also include carefully cited references within the body of the text and a works cited page at the end using the MLA style guide.
Criteria of Evaluation
Review this checklist of criteria evaluation as you prepare your essay and edit your first draft:
Content and Comprehension
Does your essay demonstrate comprehension of course texts and concepts?
Does your essay demonstrate your ability to critically assess your subject texts?
Do you apply course material and concepts in a broader context?
Argumentation and Development
Does your essay have a clear thesis, or argument, that is consistent throughout the paper?
Does the body of your essay support your thesis with evidence drawn from the relevant texts (quotations, examples)?
Have you avoided unfounded generalizations in your argument?
Style and Structure
Does your essay have a consistent and organized style?
Are your sentences and paragraphs coherent and well structured?
Do you avoid words or phrases that are repetitive, wordy, or vague?
Presentation
Is your essay polished and professionally presented in format and appearance?
Did you proofread your work for punctuation, spelling and grammatical errors?
Have you included and properly formatted all necessary citations using MLA format?
Originality
Does your work show evidence of critical, creative thinking?
Are you demonstrating your own ideas?
two sources from class:
“Age, Race, Class and Sex: Women Redefining Difference” by Audre Lorde is required reading for this week. The chapter is in Lorde’s book Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches (Trumansburg, NY: The Crossing Press, 1984) available online through the York library system.
and
Trudier Harris’, “This Disease Called Strength” (Literature and Medicine 14:1 (spring 1995): 109-26) is required reading for this week. The article is available online through the York Library system.
the remaining 2 are from outside sources
