Final paper

Research paper (4,800-6,000 words, 12pt, double spaced) applying a theoretical argument to empirical issues discussed in the course (50 per cent).

> Suggested outlines and assessment criteria.

Time line

September 17 (Week 3) Paragraph stating your interest, the topic, and the relevance. 
October 1 (Week 5) One-page outline containing topic, relevance, and argument.
October 22 (Week 8) Introduction (2-3 pages), including topic, relevance, argument, outline of method/empirical sections; please succinctly answer the following questions: 1. What is the topic and its relevance? 2. How does this paper relate to existing scholarship? 3. What is the main argument? 4. How is the  paper organized?
October 29 (Week 9) Peer review of your introduction in class.
November 19 (Week 12) 10 pages containing introduction, theory section, and some empirical work.
Week 14/15
(December 3/10)		 Presentations.
December 18 (5pm) Final paper due (5pm, @100 Eggers Hall, mail room).


Other things to keep in mind

 1. Get the basics right. Make a new and creative argument, check grammar and spelling, use consistent citations, bibliography, etc.
2. Overall appearance and spelling matter. Use spell-check and have other's proof-read your work.
3. Cite properly. Any words, parts of sentences, whole sentences, or paragraphs authored by someone else have to be identified as such (see academic honesty). It does not matter if these sources are articles, books, interviews, on-line, or from any other area providing ideas on your research subject.
4. Cite consistently. Citations should be consistent and allow the reader to easily retrieve the source of the quote (Who wrote it? What is the title? Where and when was it published?). There are many citation styles to choose from; consistency is what matters.
5. Avoid excessive use of quotation. Whatever someone else says in a different context, needs proper contextualization in your own work. Excessive use of quotations indicates a lack of effort in formulating one's own ideas.
6. Consider serious objections to your argument. Cite such claims from other authors or develop such objections yourself. Make sure that such counter claims are serious enough to either improve your original argument or force you to abandon it. Ask the instructor if you have difficulties in identifying such objections.
7. Address objections systematically. A proper reaction to an objection can be accomplished either by rejecting ("This is wrong, because evidence A or B shows...."), weakening ("This might be true, but there are unintended negative consequences such as...."), or by setting aside the other position for specific reasons ("This claim is correct, but I give preference to a different set of moral principles......."). Be aware of the differences between factual claims and normative statements. They are both acceptable but should always be separated and might require different forms of argumentative support.