The research paper must be 4-5 pages but no more than 7 pages in length, typed, MLA format. The completed research paper must use and cite a minimum of 5 different or separate online sources. Click here to see the model essay for an example of MLA formatting.Download Click here to see the model essay for an example of MLA formatting.
Each source counts as one source no matter how many times it is used in the paper. For example, three separate issues of the Armed Forces Journal count as one source. Citations (works cited sources) in the research paper must be current (within seven years). Ask the instructor about exceptions. Since I am not located on campus, “on campus only” sources may not be used.
Avoid using sources that have already done the research for you. These sources include encyclopedias, quotation Websites, Yahoo Answers, Ask.com, About.com, Wikipedia and other Wiki sources, social publications such as People Magazine, Jet Magazine, other social and “Give-Me-an-Answer” Websites, and Weblogs (blogs). Instead, do some serious research.
Dictionaries, The Holy Bible, and other reference sources may be used only in connection with other credible sources. Do not use the dictionary as a source unless you are providing an unusual definition of a word. Assume that your audience possesses a vocabulary. Since this is not a course in law, do not use the JSL databases.
In addition to the above source restrictions, do not use other research papers as a source.
At least one direct quotation must be provided from each source; however, do not submit essays or a research paper in which a large part is quoted material. I want your writing based on your research. Short quotations are permissible, but only two long direct quotations (between 5 and 10 lines) are permitted in the research paper. When you review the model formal essay handout in this course, notice that there is one short quote (from research) in the paper. Most of the writing in the paper is done by the student, not quoted from another source. You may also paraphrase the source but always give credit for ideas that are not your own by citing the paraphrased material.
An in-text citation is required each time that a source is used. If a paragraph includes two of the same sources, only one in-text citation is required for that source.
Similar to the essays, the research paper needs a title on Page 1 directly above the first paragraph, but not a title page or an abstract. The heading, title, and body of the research paper must be formatted in MLA style like all essay assignments. Refer to the model essay for formatting guidance.
The citations on the Works Cited page must include the complete URL of the Website researched. For example, if I were writing a paper on whether God created us with a desire to sin, I might develop the following citation that includes the full URL.
Miller, Jeff. “Did God Create Us with a Desire to Sin?” Apologetics Press, Apologetics Press, 9 Oct. 2014,
https://apologeticspress.org/did-god-create-us-with-a-desire-to-sin-5048/. Accessed 13 March 2023.
Notice that the complete URL is cited, not just apologeticspress.org. Also, refer to the model essay and Works Cited examples.
