PURPOSE:The final research paper is an argumentative essay with a research component that provides students an opportunity to explore a topic related to the course readings in more depth. The goal is to have students engage and evaluate a range of source types while exploring the topic and presenting their argument.REQUIREMENTS:The final research paper for English 102 should present a thesis driven argument and must be 6 pages in length (1500 words minimum) and include a works cited page. The rough draft should be at least 600-800 words of the total 1500 word requirement).The paper must incorporate at least 5 sources (you can use more):one primary reading (short story or poem–for option IV for the four poems count as one source) from our courseat least two scholarly essays and/or books accessed through the library databasesIn addition to the above requirements, the remaining sources may include the following:newspapers and popular magazinesOnline blogs, comment board postings, or websitesVisual sources: film, television, youtube videos, news images, advertisements, etc.Here is a link for with an overview for Accessing Library Databases: https://caccl-laccd.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/search?vid=01CACCL_LACCD:LASOUTHWEST&lang=enOBJECTIVES::In addition to reflecting your analytical insight into the poem or short story, the final essay should add depth to your analysis based on your research. The paper must also demonstrate the following:The ability to write an introduction with a clear thesis statement.Focused body paragraphs with topic sentences, relevant support, effective transitions, and a concluding paragraph.Smooth incorporation of outside sources (using introductory statements—tags– and correct MLA format for citing sources).The ability to engage outside sources in connection with your argument beyond merely “dropping” a quote into the paper (this means interpret the quote, summary, or paraphrase in relation to your argument).Option III: Yusef Komunyakaa’s poem “Facing It” (https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47867/facing-it) is a rumination and reflection on his viewing of the Vietnam Verteran’s Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. Research the design of the memorial and the war it memorializes (the veteran’s experiences as well). Then interpret significant lines from the poem. How does the design of the memorial and the politics of the Vietnam war (and all war by extension) inform the poem?
