This research paper is about Cover crops and soil health. Here is a brief paragraph about what to go into: My research topic is the benefits of cover crops and how they improve soil health. Cover crops are grown in the off season to protect the soil, as well as add nutrients to the soil. Cover crops do not produce any goods, but they do have many benefits. The various cover crops can be positive, although some may not be as beneficial. I will go into detail about the various cover crops that help various cash-crops. I will also go into detail about how the crop types and farm sizes have a play into the selections of the crops.
I will go into detail of the challenges along with cover crops such as the economic barriers, technical expertise, labor constraints, optimizing planting practices, and measuring the benefits.
Cover crops promise a more healthier and sustainable way of farming. The education of the benefits, challenges, and varieties, it can help the greater good of agriculture in the economy.
The essay needs to go in this order: Introduction, Literature Review, Purpose/Objectives, Methods, and references.
Here is the Rubric
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIntroduction and Problem (Section1)
30 to >25.5 pts
Excellent
A short (one page or less), yet clear, supported/cited, and succinct, introduction to the context is provided. In addition, a clear overview is built on why the research (problem) is needed including the gap in the literature. (18-20 Points)
25.5 to >19.5 pts
Fair
It is clear that an attempt at a context and a need for the study is being built, but the author has either not provided enough depth, has too much unnecessary information, or is not cited. (14-17 Points)
19.5 to >0 pts
Poor
The introduction and need either lacks in depth and relevance or is too long (and not succinct). The context is lacking and/or the case has not been constructed. There may be issues with support/citations. (0-13 Points)
30 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeKey Literature (Section 2)
30 to >25.5 pts
Excellent
Highlights of some of the most important literature that will inform the study is provided. Highlights funnels well to the framework and purpose/objectives, and continues to build the case for the study. (18-20 Points)
25.5 to >19.5 pts
Fair
This section has some key literature. Problems include disconnectedness from purpose, lack of synthesis of the literature or lack of research studies being sites (using sources like popular press). (14-17 Points)
19.5 to >0 pts
Poor
The section vaguely highlights the literature or shows no indication of selection of key literature. (0-13 Points)
30 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeTheoretical/Conceptual Framework (Section 2)
20 to >16.0 pts
Excellent
Identifies a theoretical or conceptual framework for the study: For Quant: framework explanation clearly connects the variables to each other or helps explain how the variables should be operationalized, viewed, etc.) For Qual: a conceptual framework that helps share the direction of the study (9-10 Points)
16 to >10.0 pts
Fair
Makes an attempt at connecting the study to a theoretical or conceptual framework, but there may be issues in matching or theory/conceptual framework use or explanation. (6-8 Points)
10 to >0 pts
Poor
The framework may be present, but the connection is not present, or the framework may be missing. (0-5 points)
20 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeSources
10 to >8.0 pts
Excellent
15 or more research studies are highlighted in the Introduction and Key Literature sections. (9-10 Points)
8 to >5.0 pts
Fair
7-14 research studies are highlighted in the Introduction and Key Literature sections. (6-8 Points)
5 to >0 pts
Poor
Less the 7 research studies are highlighted in the Introduction and Key Literature sections. (0-5 points)
10 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWriting & APA
10 to >8.0 pts
Excellent
The paper is relatively error-free of grammar and/or APA issues. (9-10 Points)
8 to >5.0 pts
Fair
The paper highlights some errors in grammar and APA, but the paper is still readable. (6-8 Points)
5 to >0 pts
Poor
The paper is difficult to read due to issues with grammar and/or APA (0-5 Points)
10 pts
