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THE RESEARCH PAPER. The Junior Magnum Opus. Research Paper Objectives. Create an argument with a specific claim that considers a universal truth Consider opponents’ claims through concession and refutation Develop the overall purpose of an argument through multi-modal writing:
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THE RESEARCH PAPER The Junior Magnum Opus
Research Paper Objectives • Create an argument with a specific claim that considers a universal truth • Consider opponents’ claims through concession and refutation • Develop the overall purpose of an argument through multi-modal writing: • narration, information, description, cause-effect, compare-contrast, define, classify • Access appropriate sources using databases, print, and nonprint sources • Use MLA style guides to document and attribute sources
Finding a “Just-Right” Topic Think of the story “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” Goldilocks was always searching for the “just-right” porridge, chair, and bed. You are searching for the “just-right” research topic.
A “Just-right” Research Topic . . . • is general enough that you can discuss the topic through a range of contexts and examples • is specific enough that you can develop a clear position and provide precise information
Topics That Are NOT “Just-right” TOO GENERAL Obesity in children Social media TOO SPECIFIC Obesity in children negatively affecting how they perform in English class Facebook encouraging American females to fight
Developing a Research Question Research questions will help: • guide the direction of your research • help you to become more invested in your research by informing you about the topic • consider the writing modes you will use and the overall organization of the research paper
Sample Topic and Research Questions Afghanistan’s future without the United States • For what exactly does Afghanistan depend on the U.S.? • Currently, how effectively does the Afghanistan government govern its people? • In history, what would happen to Afghanistan after the nation that once occupied it exited? • Is democracy possible in Afghanistan? • How likely is civil war if the U.S. leaves now?