Research Paper

You will write an 8-10 page research paper on a topic related to Abnormal Psychology. A Research/Thesis Essay is a writing assignment where you may either: a) research a specific topic to gain better insight and then express your interpretations and evaluations, or, b) make a persuasive argument or take a stand on an issue and then provide evidence to prove the validity of your points. It is important to make references to the facts presented in the materials even when expressing opinions. You may use the course text in addition to other scholarly sources. The intent of the paper is for you to do research and then convey it in a clear and meaningful way with interpretations and insights.

You must cite a minimum of 8 references from peer-reviewed academic publications. The cover page and reference page are included the 8-10 pages. The paper must use APA style (double spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, 1-inch margins, in-text citations and APA formatted references).

Use correct grammar, punctuation and full sentences. Put your best effort into it as this will count for a good part of your final grade. Submit your research paper in a Microsoft Word document in Blackboard through the link in the Research Paper folder.

Format

• APA Style
• Length: 2,000-2,500 words, 8-10 Pages
• Typed using 1” Margins; Double-spaced; 12 point font
• Cover Page Includes: Running Header, Your Name; Course Name; Instructor’s Name; Title; and Date
• Use at least 8 scholarly sources (books, articles, case studies)

Introductory Paragraph

• Introduce your topic and clearly make a strong thesis statement, which is what you plan to prove or explain in your essay.

Organizing Ideas

• Thesis statement forms the basis of the essay
• Decide on a few key ideas that express your thesis statement
• Each of these key ideas can become their own paragraphs • Develop your ideas in each paragraph by using examples, giving details, and using quotes
• The use of the first person “I” is not appropriate for a research essay.

Body of the Essay

• Present your ideas in a logical way with in-text citations when needed.

Concluding Paragraph

Reiteration of your thesis statement and summary of your arguments or points.

Grading Rubric for Research Paper

Category	Point Value
Cover Page: Properly formatted according to APA style with running header, page number, title and student information with no errors in spelling or punctuation	5
Introduction: An engaging introduction, clearly states the main topic and previews the structure of the essay.	10
Thesis Statement: Clearly and concisely states the essay’s purpose, which is engaging and thought-provoking.	10
Body of the Essay: Well developed main points/topic sentences that relate directly to the thesis. Each paragraph has thoughtful supporting detail sentences that explore the main idea. Paragraphs demonstrate comprehension of the topic through critical thinking that analyzes the topic with balanced and logical arguments.	25
Conclusion: The conclusion is engaging and restates the thesis.	10
Organization/ Style: Logical sequencing of ideas through well-developed paragraphs. Writing is smooth, skillful, and coherent. Sentences are strong and expressive with varied structure. Diction is consistent and words are well chosen.	15
Grammar & Mechanics: Punctuation, capitalization, spelling, spacing, indentation, and margins are correct	10
In-text Citations: The ideas have been properly cited with APA-style citations (quotation/ summary/ paraphrase). All cited works, both text and visual, are done in correct format with no errors.	5
References: Correct format with no errors. Includes more than 8 scholarly references (e.g. journal articles, books, no more than two internet sites).	10