The overall purpose of this research paper is for you to select a relevant topic of your choice related to human development, read and understand scholarly research and use it to support your own opinions and ideas.  Follow the specific requirements listed below in preparing you paper.

1. 	General format information. Your paper should be 7 – 8 typed pages in length. 
2. 	Follow the Writing Guidelines and remember that if you commit plagiarism you may receive a grade of F.  
       Your paper should be organized as follows:
•	 Cover page.  The title of your research paper, your name, the date and the professor’s name.
•	Introduction.  A paragraph or two that clearly and concisely describes (1) the topic of your paper (2) the questions you will investigate and (3) the various points of view or differing explanations proposed in the professional journal articles on which you are basing your paper.
•	Research section. The core of the paper 4 to 6 pages covering research and scholarly work on your topic.  Use six to ten sources, the majority of your sources should have been published within the last five years. Do not use contemporary publications and popular magazines. Most of your sources should be books and professional journals.   No use of Wepedia, Encarta Encyclopedia or similar Internet sources. Electronic databases should be used to locate full text professional journal articles on research on your topic. This is the most critical section of your paper. You must refer to and cite information regarding research that has been done professionally on your topic. Two, is the minimum number of detailed research studies  that have been published in professional journals, to be described in detail in  your paper.  Attach to your paper, hard copies of two journal articles on major research studies you cite as sources in your paper( print your name on the top of each article).  This does not include published articles that make general references to professional research. Major deductions will be made if this requirement is not met.
In covering the research studies you chose related to your topic, be sure to clearly describe (1) the topic of the research being reported, (2) the research methods used , size of study sample, and who sponsored the research, (3) the researcher’s conclusions, and (4) questions raised by the research. In the last paragraph of this section summarize the research  findings that you covered.
•	Your opinion section.  This is the formal conclusion of your paper which expresses your own
       opinion and ideas based on the research you have read. Indicate the sources you agree with
       and which you don’t, and why. What conclusions can you draw? What important questions
       related to your topic remain unanswered?
•	Bibliography. Use proper form in listing your sources; see the Writing Guidelines. Be advised to only use credible Internet sources.
•	Use C.A.S.A. resources, a dictionary and spell check tools. Have a friend proof read your paper. Do not wait until the last minute to write and print your paper, only to find out you have computer hardware problems.  Get your work in on time. It was assigned the first day of class. 
•	Remember this is not a general topic or personal opinion paper. The objective is to present relevant  professional research on your topic. 
•	Seek help if needed, sample research papers can be viewed.


2007, Sellarole