The Research Paper (Explaining a Concept) — English 1101

This paper goes into your English1101 Portfolio

We will begin our research exploration with the reading and discussion of Brent Staples' essay which examines the concept of stereotyping.  This discussion will be followed by a conversation about other possible concept topics.  Finally we will look at the multiple concepts explored in Ella Minnow Pea.  For your research project, you may choose between

Stereotyping:

1) a concept paper on a specific aspect of stereotyping which will require citation material from a minimum of 3 outside academic sources. If you choose to explore this concept, think about the ways we group, classify, and stereotype our fellow man.  Choose one area/aspect of stereotyping that you would like to research for your project.  I'm sure that you can readily think of some groups who are often stereotyped, but try to explore some less obvious ways we make assumptions about each other. Remember that this paper has a research focus, and you will need to think beyond your personal experiences and look to academic sources for examples for your paper.

Or

Ella Minnow Pea:

 2) a concept paper explaining one of the many concepts embedded in Dunn's novel, Ella Minnow Pea.  This choice will require sufficient citations from the text that illustrate and explain the concept as Dunn presents it.  In addition, you will need a traditional definition of the concept from a legitimate source as your concept baseline.  This  book is full of abstract concepts with numerous examples of each.  Choose a concept and  show (without retelling the narrative) how Dunn supports his interpretation of the concept.    

Folder requirements: 

        Concept map

        Peer review sheets

        At least two significant drafts of paper

 3-5 page paper (a minimum of several lines on page four) with in-text citations. 

 A Works Cited page (in addition to the content page requirement)

 turnitin receipt from the turnitin site--no handwritten substitutes

Format Requirements:

        Third person only

        Present tense

        12-point font

        Double-spaced

        MLA format 

        Works Cited page  (The stereotype paper will require at least 3 academic sources [edu, gov., or org--with permission.]  Peer reviewed journals or books preferred.  No  blogs or webpages.)  Dictionaries, Wikipedia, or any other encyclopedia-type resource may not be counted as part of your 3 academic sources.

        Sufficient in-text citations to "make your case"        

Due Date:    MWF classes--Monday, April 9

                     MW class--Monday, April 9