YOUR 5-7 PAGE PAPER WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: Title Page: Follow the guidelines for student papers Introduction : Summarize the overall focus of your paper and provide your reader with a roadmap/outlineof your discussion. In your introduction you should clearly identify both the problem and the policy response. Body: The content (i.e., body of the paper) should address the following areas. 1. History and Context of the Social Problem- What is the problem/how is it defined/who defines it as such? Is there disagreement about whether or not there is a problem? How is it defined? Explain. Provide facts and data that describe the problem. What, if any, conflicting social values and beliefs are at play in how the problem is viewed/understood? Are some values minimized while others figure prominently in the way the problem is described to the public/to policy makers? Who is affected by the problem? Are any groups disproportionately affected? Explore/Explain. 2. Power Imbalance and Struggle Who loses from this social problem? Who gains from this social problem? Who opposes/supports this alleviation of the problem? As related to the problem, what is the balance of power? 3. Public Reaction Explore how voters react to this problem - are there differences based on age, income, gender, religious preference, political affiliation, etc. Explore how the media covers and portrays the issue? 4. Public Policy What is the public policy that responds to this social issue? Describe the policy - when implemented, by whom, at what level, etc. Has the policy changed since it was implemented? How? Legislative? Judicial? Administrative? What are the objectives of the policy and how are those reflective of values/beliefs? Are there hidden agendas? Who is in support of/opposition to the policy? (What groups have spoken out to support and/or protest the policy?) 5. Policy Implementation and Impact What programs have been implemented as a result of the policy? Who has oversight over these programs? If there are multiple programs, choose one to discuss. How does this program address the identified problem? Who is served by the program? Is any group disproportionally involved in the program? Are the programs effective? How is this effectiveness measured? What is the cost/benefit of the program? Discuss the impact of the policy and program - both intended and unintended. 6. Future of Program and Policy Is there current legislative, judicial, and/or administrative action related to the program? Is the problem a "hot topic" in politics today? What changes are on the horizon for this policy? Why? From a social work point of view, summarize what needs to be done to better support marginalized and oppressed groups as related to the future of this policy area. The body of your paper should include headers to aid in the organization and flow of your paper. Conclusion Summarize the main points of your discussion Please remember that one of the goals of this assignment is to build on your ability to use clear, concise language. In our profession it is critical that we are able to discuss complex ideas and topics in short and clear written documents. Papers that go over the page length will not be accepted. Do not use quotes excessively; when appropriate you may want to use a short direct quote but you should focus on your own ability to succinctly convey what you’ve learned.