Informative Research PaperCourse OutcomesWrite a critical analysis of source material Synthesize source material and integrate it into students’ writing smoothly and appropriately Be comfortable u

Informative Research Paper

Course Outcomes

• Write a critical analysis of source material
• Synthesize source material and integrate it into students’ writing smoothly and appropriately
• Be comfortable using outside sources and materials
• Use an appropriate note-taking system
• Cite sources properly, both in text and on Works Cited pages
• Have a firm grasp of grammar and mechanics and be able to edit own work

Instructions

Now that you have done some preliminary work with the Bill of Rights, it is time to do some research. Your assignment is to pick one of the Amendments and find out as much as you can about how it has affected laws in the United States. Your essay needs to address the following topics:

1. What historical events led to its adoption?

2. How has the Supreme Court interpreted the Amendment since it was adopted?

3. Describe at least two court cases relevant to the Amendment.

This essay should follow all of the syllabus rules for Written Assignments and Essay Assignments. You will need to use MLA style to cite your sources. You must use at least three significant sources.

I expect this essay to be primarily informational with little or no original analysis. It is your job just to inform us about the history of the amendment you have chosen. It is acceptable for you to focus on just one aspect of the specific amendment. For instance, if you chose the First Amendment, you might just focus on the "freedom to assemble."

Please keep your essay appropriately focused. You should be able to fulfill these requirements in 3-4 pages. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO EXPLAIN EVERYTHING ABOUT THE AMENDMENT.

Rubric

Informative Research Paper RubricInformative Research Paper RubricCriteriaRatingsPtsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeASSIGNMENT BASICSHow well does the essay fulfill the assignment? Are there parts of the assignment missing from the essay?15.0 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFOCUSHow well focused is the essay from start to finish? Does each paragraph have a singular focus that adds to the overall focus? If appropriate, is the thesis clear?15.0 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeINTRO AND CONCLUSIONDoes the intro provide an appropriate "entry" into the essay and topic? Does the intro draw the reader in? Does the conclusion provide a sense of closure?10.0 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeSOURCESAre quotes used appropriately? Is there sufficient context to understand the use of sources? Does the essay follow MLA format?20.0 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCRITICAL THINKINGHow original is the presentation of the evidence? Is it mostly just summary with no insights? How much depth is presented? Are connections made beyond simple quotes and summary?15.0 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeORGANIZATIONHow well doe the paragraphs "flow"? Does the essay feel coherent or is it just a random list of ideas? Does the organization make it easier or harder to read?15.0 ptsThis criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeGRAMMARAre the significant grammar errors that make it difficult to read the essay? Are there too many long, wordy sentences? Are there too many short, choppy sentences?10.0 ptsTotal Points: 100.0