1. FINAL ASSIGNMENT:
The Research Paper

2. This is a researched argument.
You will select a topic and then select a position.
You will support your position with valid sources.

3. Specifics
You will turn in a 3-5 page, MLA style (double-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman, 1” margins, in-text citations) research paper with a cover page and annotated bibliography.
You must use at least 3 sources, 1 of which must be an actual printed text. Online sources must be .org, .edu, or .gov addresses.
You will have your typed thesis statement, outline, and annotated bibliography approved (signed) by me no later than May 30th by 4:00 PM.
Your cover sheet, final paper, signed thesis, signed outline, and signed annotated bibliography must be turned in – in that order, in a folder with your name on the outside by the day of your final – before the end of the period.
If you are exempt from the final, this counts as two exam grades and one daily grade. If you are not exempt from the final, this will ALSO count as your final exam grade.

4. Step 1 Select a topic. You have two choices:
1) Should The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn be included in Silva Magnet’s English 3 curriculum next year? You will decide if this canonical novel still holds value in a 21st century classroom and try to convince me whether or not it should be taught next year.
2) Is a college degree still necessary? Some people argue that in the Internet age, the cost of a college degree is no longer necessary. Consider both sides of the issue and make an argument for or against the importance of a college degree in the 21st century.

5. Step 2 Decide on a preliminary stance. Make a general statement:
IE: “I DO think The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn should be taught next year.”
IE: “I DO think the value of a college education is still worthwhile today.”

6. Step 3
Use your general statement to guide your research and then RESEARCH!
Look for valid sources: The CRAAP Test
Write your annotated bibliography

7. Step 4 Write your outline.
Make sure you remember that this is a persuasive essay.
You should include all three appeals and persuasive language
Finesse your final thesis statement. Remember to remove the “I” statement and be more specific than your general statement. You have done some research now and have more of an idea of exactly what your argument is really about.

8. Step 5
Approval
You must bring your typed thesis statement, outline, and annotated bibliography to me for approval in the form of a signature.
You will have to turn these in with your final

9. Step 6
Write the paper! 
You have an outline and your research. You know how to write a persuasive paper. Meet with me for questions, comments, and concerns prior to the due date.

10. Step 7
Turn it in and RELAX.