Geog207 research paper

GLOBAL GEOGRAPHY (ENVI 419)

TERM PAPER EVALUATION SHEET

Please use this as a guide as you write your term paper. I will be using this guide as I grade.

A. Research: Solid research generally results in great papers. Research that includes sufficient detail leads to clear, insightful descriptions of concepts that can be used to support later conclusions. Research that is multi-sided, and contains accurate information makes it easier to analyze your topic and reach logical conclusions.

1. Sources must be reliable, accurate, analytical, and/or scholarly.

2. There must be enough sources (be careful when using internet sources, especially Wikis)

3. Sources must be appropriately current and/or reflect the most recent thought and events on the topic.

B. Content: Substantively, your term paper must demonstrate that you know your subject thoroughly. Do this by providing substantiated and accurate facts, specific detail, presented in a framework of sound logic.

1. Sufficient factual basis: facts must be supportable and accurate.

2. Information must be specific rather than vague. Include adequate detail.

3. Logic must be clear and supportable; arguments must make sense.

4. Conclusions must be supported by evidence, not merely stated as fact; just because something is written and published does not make it true. Draw on your factual content to make your case. AVOID PERSONAL OPINION.

C. Organization: In order to be most effective, your term paper must be logically organized. A common and straightforward way to organize writing is chronologically (from an earlier point in time to a later point in time). Good organization leads the reader (me, your instructor) from the facts to a well-supported conclusion.

1. Points must follow in a logical progression

2. Points should be made clearly, and not repeated.

3. All points should be relevant (NO irrelevant points).

D. Grammar, spelling: The writer must use correct grammar and spelling

1. Grammar should be excellent.

2. Spelling should be error free.

E. Citations: The purpose of citations is to make it possible for the reader to look up the source. Citations acknowledging sources must be included in text. In addition, a “Works Cited” page must be included at the end of the text.

1. Citations must be included in text (they are required).

2. Citation information in “works cited” must be complete (author and/or title, dates, etc.) --- even for internet sources (a URL is NOT complete citation for internet sources). Citations must use a standard format of your choice APA, MLA or University of Chicago/Turabian). For help, go to “Citation Wizard” (http://workscited.tripod.com/).

3. “Works Cited” list or page must be included.

GOOD LUCK!