Instruction
Bird(HIST)
A Short Paper Assignment allows you, early in the course, to demonstrate your research skills to your instructor and to receive feedback that will benefit you when you write your research paper. With this assignment, you will learn how to do proper and adequate research and write a short paper and prepare you for writing the research paper.
This short paper is at least three double-spaced pages of text (Times New Roman, font size 12) and you must consult a minimum of two academically credible sources. NO TEXTBOOKS OR ENCYCLOPEDIAS Bibliographies and citations will be in the Chicago Manual of Style format for history majors. Other majors can use MLA or APA.
The short paper needs to be turned in through the assignment section for grading. If you use any of the information from your sources word-for-word, you must cite the source by using endnotes or footnotes. If you read the information and write it in your own words and it is not common knowledge, then you must cite the source because you are paraphrasing someone's information.
The short paper must include a cover page with your name, course number and course title, instructor's name, and date. You must also include a bibliography at the end of your paper. While composing your paper, use proper English. Do not use abbreviations, contractions, passive voice, or first/ second person (I, you, we, our, etc). Before submitting your paper, check your grammar and use spell check. Remember, the way you talk is not the way you write a paper. Please label your paper as follows: lastnamefirstnameHIST101ShortPaper.
Paper Topic:
Chose any group in America and explore their impact on American history and society. The time frame for the paper is to fall into the time frame of the class, to 1877. You may chose any group. Some examples- any Native American Tribe, Loyalist, any religious group, ethic groups, reform movement group. Be creative and find a group that you want to learn more about their history and how they shaped American culture and history. You need to create a strong, clear and concise thesis. Have fun and enjoy!