Write a 6-8 page research paper that synthesizes at least six sources in a discussion of your topic. Three of these sources must be available in print form. Because this is a short paper, make sure your focus is appropriately narrow. You will have a chance to expand your discussion (and take a side on the issue) in your second research paper. In this paper, your explanation of the concept or issue will be the central element. You should focus on processes or concepts that are key to understanding the issue. The clarity of your thesis and the support for those claims are important elements of this paper. Use your sources as expert evidence to support your claims. This means that as you use the sources, you will need to establish their credibility and their importance to the issue you are writing about. If you are claiming expertise in your topic, which you probably will if you are writing about a hobby or activity, you should establish your expertise through examples and discussion that establishes you as someone knowledgeable about the issue.

A passing (“C”) paper will include A thesis that is the focus of the paper and controls its content Clear key points clear that support the thesis Evidence that clearly supports your claims Clear structure appropriate to your approach to the topic Focused paragraphs, well-developed with supporting details and evidence from your sources Appropriately formatted in-text citations that follow APA style Appropriately formatted quotations that are integrated into your discussion Explanations and commentary that help your readers see the connections between quotations or paraphrases and the arguments you are making. A Works Cited page in APA style Grammar, punctuation, and spelling that meet the standards of English written in a formal academic setting Outstanding papers will combine the above elements with significance, fluency, and skillful use of the source material.