Assignment: Write a Research-Driven Academic Essay
Length: 2400 – 3200 words (8-10 pages)
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 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:
Does the Essay demonstrate that the author has researched sufficiently to become an expert—albeit a novice one—on the topic and issues discussed in the Essay?
Does the Essay demonstrate Rhetorical Awareness—including a sense of the author as novice expert, a sense of audience awareness, and a sense of effective writing strategies used to accomplish a clear purpose?
Does the Essay demonstrate that the author is aware of the multiple positions that can be (and are) taken on the issue, and demonstrate the ability to respond logically to sources—those that agree and those that disagree with the overall claim of the essay?
Does the Essay demonstrate the ability to use sources effectively?
Does the Essay demonstrate a clear purpose, including claims that are effectively supported with reasons and evidence?
Is the Essay written effectively, with appropriate tone, diction, grammar, and writing mechanics (including proper use of either MLA or APA style)?
Is a Works Cited or References list—properly formatted—included?
Is the essay double-spaced and does it have proper formatting, including page numbers as appropriate for chosen style?
Is the Essay length within the required range?
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.