Thesis / Research Paper (5-7 page document on a topic chosen by the student that poses a question and drives the entire Graduation Project) The research paper, as defined in the NCDPI Exit Standards Implementation Guide, "requires students to develop and demonstrate proficiency in conducting research and writing proficiency in conduction research and writing proficiently about a chosen in-depth topic." The research paper should contain a thesis that the writer proves of disproves through research evidence.
CENTRAL QUESTION DEVELOPMENT - Read the following worksheet to help you decide what your main question is and how to refine and shape it into something you can use for your paper.
CENTRAL QUESTION DEVELOPMENT GUIDE PDF HERE
Format:
Introductory Paragraph:
Includes the Essential Question rewritten as a declarative thesis statement; it is usually the last sentence.
Includes one to three sentences articulating the general overview of the research.
Body Paragraph:
Follows the order of the outline
Provides specific support from reputable sources
Each paragraph begins with a topic sentence that is a transition from the previous paragraph.
Each point in the paragraph supports and references the topic sentence.
Points are supported with specific source references / citations – two to three per paragraph
Quotations are correctly cited and tagged / introduced
Data and other pieces of evidence are properly cited
Anecdotes are used in conjunction with empirical evidence (observations)
The Conclusion:
Supports, reiterates, and summarizes the thesis
Leaves the reader with a memorable final point or strong impression of the writer’s evaluation.
Includes and alphabetized Work Cited (using MLA format) with complete and accurate citation entries
Includes a minimum of seven sources and a maximum of ten sources; three different types (book, on line, periodicals, interviews…)
There is a limit to four, on-line resources (excludes on-line periodicals)
Each paragraph contains two to three citations, either parenthetical or tagged.
Grammar, Mechanics, and Organization:
Checked for proper capitalization, especially of all proper nouns
Checked for proper spelling
All numbers at the beginning of a sentence are written out
Avoids excessive use of passive voice in favor of active verbs (“She had brought the treats for the class”. Should read: “She brought the treats…”)
Avoids split infinitives (“to once again put” should read: “once again to put” or “to put once again”)
Pronoun and antecedents agree in number and person and are clearly identified (“The student brought the homework…” Should read: “The students brought his / her homework…”)
Avoids awkward phrasing
Related thoughts are grouped into paragraph of reasonable length
It is obvious that the writer sought streamlining and simplification
Provides elaboration and explanation of unfamiliar or unclear ideas or references
Proper punctuated quotations
Uses proper format for lengthy quotes
Avoids first-person construction
Quotations and student paraphrasing are equally balanced
CENTRAL QUESTION DEVELOPMENT GUIDE PDF HERE
Highlighted information linked to www.Wikipedia.org (for your assistance)