Research Paper: Proposal Assignment Instructions
Overview
This is the first step toward your final research paper. A paper is written by beginning with the topic, initial research of primary and secondary sources, the formulation of a thesis statement, and building an outline. These are the main aspects of this assignment. The rubric will also require a brief preliminary conclusion.
Instructions
Each student will submit a 1–2-page proposal which includes a thesis statement, preliminary outline and conclusion, and a preliminary bibliography listing no less than 2 primary and 4 secondary sources. Sources must follow current Turabian format. A sample proposal is included in the module. No title or other front matter should be included.
- A thesis statement is a single sentence that tells the reader what you will attempt to argue or prove (no introductory paragraph)
- The outline should be 3 levels deep (each section should contain a main point, sub-points, and sub-sub-points)
This proposal should reflect a clear focus of the topic you chose earlier in the term.
Be sure to focus your topic to a clear historical context revolving around a person, event, period, etc. Avoid general summaries of the chosen topic. Narrow your focus so as to allow depth in your research and writing. This focus will help you locate adequate primary sources. As noted previously, remember that this is a history class and that you need to write a history paper. You may include biblical and/or theological analysis but that cannot be the sole focus of your paper.
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.