English 110 Persuasive Research Paper (PRP) Directions

Weekly Learning Objective: Demonstrate understanding of effective research techniques, appropriate APA citations, creation of visual graphics, and use of analysis and argument in an essay that is based on scholarly research.

The final assessment in English 110 is the Persuasive Research Paper, an essay that will thoroughly analyze a problem, preferably in your career field, then present a possible solution or solutions. The essay must use persuasive techniques when discussing the problem and the solution. The following points will help in creating this document:

You should select a problem with a relatively narrow scope, even though the topic you start with may be broad. Banned Topics and Good Topic Suggestions

Start by proving that the problem exists. Present the full picture of the short and long-term implications and costs of the problem

Present a solution or solutions and implementation plan for the problem. Acknowledge and address limitations to your solution(s)

Remember that this paper must be a persuasive argument, and the effectiveness of your argument depends on first convincing your audience that the problem is significant. Depending on your topic, you may need to persuade that the problem exists, or you may choose a known problem and use persuasion when discussing causes or the need to address the problem.

Likewise, you must also use persuasion when discussing your solution(s). Why is your solution a good one? 

Address an opposing view (the view that this issue is not really a problem at all, or you can address an opposing view to your solution) and then refute that view through high-level reasoning and credible evidence

Only unbiased, research-based publications and other sources should be used for your writing in this class, or in any professional document

Keep direct quotations to a minimum; use only when necessary (smoothly integrate paraphrased information to support your claims, and cite correctly)

As you research the problem, consider the following points for development in your essay:

various ways the problem is experienced

who experiences the problem

how long the problem has been in existence (historical report)

potential causes of the problem and any conflicting views regarding the cause or opposing views that the problem exists

forecasting the potential future of the problem (note: do not go into detail about the solutions in this section)

As you work on the solution, consider the following points for development in your essay:

what interventions may have been done in the past to solve the problem (historical report)

limitations to the solution

opposing view on relevant and practical solutions

macro (“big picture”) solutions and micro (practical, every-day) solutions

steps required for implementing solution/complications regarding solutions

how solution would be experienced in the real world (versus the world of theory and discourse)

Persuasive Research Paper Requirements

• Develop an in-depth analysis of a key problem/challenge in your career field, or other area of interest.

• Present your well-researched recommendations for solving this problem in a 5-7 page essay, using 5-7 credible sources. 

• Research can be a combination of scholarly print, electronic, Internet, and audio visual sources. Sources must be credible, so use caution when using Internet sources.

• Include a title page, abstract, references, and table/figure page (these do not count towards the minimum 5-7 pages of text). APA guideline formatting must be used.

• At least one self-created visual aid to present and interpret research data.

♦ The visual will either be a table or a figure and must be original, use research, and be properly cited in APA.

♦ It should appear on a separate page at the end of the essay as a figure or table – review the reading and videos provided in Week 5 and the Visual Citation Example google doc

• Use only third person point of view (forms of “he,” “she,” “it,” “they,” and “one”)

Persuasive Research Paper Rubric

200 Possible Points

Requirements: 15 Points Possible

Essay shows an understanding of how to format a research essay in appropriate APA style and has the following requirements met: 5-7 pages of text, double spaced, Times New Roman, pt. 12 font, 1” margins, etc. The essay includes an appropriate title page, an abstract, and an original visual.

Organization and Unity: 30 Points Possible

Uses good paragraph construction, has a solid intro and conclusion and easily identifiable thesis. Organizes ideas in a logical, easy to follow manner (paragraphs transition smoothly, sentences are clearly written). Material correlates to thesis.

Critical Thinking/Content: 60 Points Possible

Presents a persuasive stance that convinces readers to support the action or thought without delivering a personal opinion – persuasion is based on research and persuasive techniques. Clearly and thoroughly refutes counterarguments. Solution is presented, limitations addressed. Demonstrates high level critical thinking.

Research: 25 Points Possible

5-7 credible sources are used. Research is smoothly incorporated into the essay and supports the thesis.

Grammar/Mechanics/Style: 25 Points Possible

Proofreading is evident. No more than a few minor errors in grammar, spelling, mechanics, diction, or syntax. Errors do not disrupt readability. 3rd person narrative only is used.

APA Citations: 25 Points Possible

Shows correct APA formatting of sources, both in-text and on the reference page. All sources are cited. Essay is plagiarism free.

Visual: 20 Points Possible

Draft includes an original visual (table or graph) with data that correlates to the topic, is clearly represented, and formatted in APA on a separate page after the references

Submit in Assignments via the left-hand navigation menu.

Review the Course Calendar for the specific due date.