SO 334 Final Research Paper
Your final research paper is due at the start of class May2nd. For this assignment you can choose to either explore a course topic more in depth or find a related topic that has not been addressed in class. Both course and outside materials should be used for this assignment and the emphasis will be on the research and critical analysis of the material. This is not a book report or literature review, but a chance for you to use the research in support of your argument.
Successful papers will include the following:
- Identify and describe the issue
- Review the state of the issue as introduced and developed in lectures, course reading assignments and some outside sources. I am most interested in your interpretation (how you make sense) of the articles/ book and your ability to organize your thoughts and integrate prior course material as relevant. Summarize as necessary, but focus on your analysis work.
- Evaluate the evidence from all sides
- A well developed and edited coherent argument
Your arguments should be based on a general sociological understanding of mental health/illness and sociological concepts as presented in the class texts and readings as well as specific facts from relevant contemporary sources. This paper will count for 30% of your final grade, so it should be given a great deal of thought and effort. Because there is no final exam in the course, it is primarily through the term paper that you must prove you have done and understood the required course readings.
Papers should be 15 pages (no more than 20 pgs) typed (Times New Roman, 12 pt font, 1 in margins). Please use in text citations (no footnotes) in ASA format with references included as a page(s) at the end. Please refer to the following online source for citation formatting help:
Papers are due in class at 8am on May 2nd. Papers turned in after 8am will be penalized according to the late grade policy (1/3 drop (i.e. A to A-) for each day late.
