Length: 2400 – 3200 words* (8-10 pages)
*word count does not include: headers, headings, title, Works Cited, etc. Word count includes just the main text of the essay.
Topic: Determined by student and subject to approval by Dr. Huisman
Number of Sources: As many as are needed to effectively demonstrate full understanding of the material and to effectively support the claim set forth.
- Minimum: 8 sources
- Maximum: no posted maximum, but most of the sources chosen should be used extensively, which will create a natural limit to the number of sources that can be used effectively.
Type of Sources: Each rhetorical situation varies, and so does the appropriate source for the situation. Sources should in general be substantial, reliable, valid, and should treat material with appropriate depth. There should be a clear pattern of “going to the source.” In most cases, scholarly sources should be used–unless there is a clear need for other types of sources due to the nature of your project.
Expectations:
- The Essay will demonstrate that the author has researched sufficiently to become an expert—albeit a novice one—on the topic and issues discussed in the Essay.
- The Essay will demonstrate a clear awareness of purpose, including claims that are effectively supported with reasons and evidence.
- The Essay will demonstrate that the author is aware of the multiple positions that can be (and are) taken on the issue, and it will demonstrate the student’s ability to respond logically to sources—those that agree andthose that disagree with the overall claim of the essay.
- The Essay will demonstrate the ability to use source ideas effectively, with clarity and proper attribution of ideas.
- The essay will demonstrate mastery of either MLA or APA style.
- The page format will follow the requirements of the chosen format.
- The Essay will use proper in-text citation, as befits the chosen style.
- The Essay will include Works Cited or References list—properly formatted.
- The Essay will be carefully crafted, with appropriate tone, diction, grammar, and writing mechanics.
- The Essay will be within the assigned word count.
- Reminder: Word count is a symptom, not a direct measure, of Essay depth and development, but as a general rule being in the mid-to-upper range of the required word count is usually necessary to earn high grades.