The final paper for this course is a 6-8 page paper (double-spaced, 12 point font) on a topic of your choice related to the course content. The goal of the paper is to develop an argument or answer a question about some aspect of urban or local politics. You will do this by performing independent research to learn about your topic and by gathering evidence to support your argument. You are also welcome to use readings and ideas from the course when relevant.
Choose a local policy area of interest to you. How have cities made policy decisions related to this topic? Who are the stakeholders and coalitions with an interest in the policy, and how has city policy evolved over time? If you are examining a policy proposal that is currently being considered in a city, what is your prediction for the likely outcome?
This is an Expository (explanatory) paper: explains something to the audience.
Example of an Expository Thesis : While the media often focuses on individual causes of homelessness like addiction and mental health, in this paper I describe how structural factors like lack of affordable housing are often more important determinants of housing instability for families.
| Your paper will be graded holistically according to the following criteria: Argument and Content:Does the paper have a clearly stated topic or question?Does the paper have a clearly developed argument(s) or thesis statement?Does the paper provide an adequate roadmap of how the argument will be developed?Does your paper unfold logically, with the various paragraphs and sections building off of each other in a coherent manner?If necessary, does your paper address possible critiques or counterarguments? Research and Evidence:Does the paper provide a variety of appropriate evidence? (This might include hypothetical or historical examples, quotes or statistics, election data, or simply facts from newspaper articles)Do you cite a variety of different sources?When introducing evidence to support your argument, do you provide sufficient analysis and interpretation? Writing:Does your paper have an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion?Have you edited the paper for grammar and spelling?Are your paragraphs an appropriate length, with transitions that help develop your argument?Is the writing clear and easy to follow? Logistics:Does your paper have a title?Are all the pages numbered?Is the paper written in 12 point font with 1-inch margins and double spacing?Do your name, the instructor’s name, the course name, and the date appear on the first page of the paper? Questions to Help Generate A Thesis • What is the most important theme or explanatory factor running through your research? • If there is disagreement between sources: which side is more convincing? • Based on your research and personal opinion: what is the most likely political or policy outcome? • What factors have been overlooked? • What makes this case unique? Or, how could this case be applied elsewhere? • Let’s brainstorm together if you are stuck! NO PLAGIARISM!!!! MUST QUOTE ALL UNORIGINAL INFO |