Literary Research Paper
Throughout the year we have read a variety of interesting works. Each work contains many different themes, ideas, and questions that can be analyzed further outside of the work. Over the next 6 weeks you will put together a research paper based on one of the works we have studied this year. We will spend several days each week devoting our time to the research and writing process. The days we spend in class will be used for the current work we are analyzing.
You are to use the time given you to research a concept from the work of your choice, formulate a thesis, gather sources to support it, and craft a thoughtful argument proving your thesis.
The paper will be broken up into several parts. The requirements are as follows:
Thesis statement 10pts Due 4/23
List of sources
(at least 4) 10pts Due 4/29
Outline 10pts Due 5/7
Rough Draft
(4-6 pages) 20pts Due 5/14
Final Draft:
Typed
Times New Roman
Font 12
Double Spaced
4-6 pages
MLA citations for all sources
All sources quoted at least once
No 1st person
100pts Due 5/27
Works Cited Page
Typed
Correct MLA format
Attached to final copy
At least 4 sources
50pts Due 5/27
Total 200pts
This grade will account for approximately ½ of your 4th marking period grade. You must follow the requirements EXACTLY. A late paper will be accepted for ½ credit, NO EXCEPTIONS! If you are absent the day the paper is due you will receive ½ credit.
Emailing your paper is NOT ACCEPTABLE.
All sources must be acceptable. NO SPARKNOTES! Scholarly articles, criticisms, and journals only.
Use your time in the library wisely. It is not social hour. If you are not working, you will be sent out. It is up to you to make the most of it. I will be available for help and/or questions. Do not come to me the week the paper is due and tell me you don’t understand what we are supposed to be doing.
Students who do not return this paper with a signature will not receive credit for any of the assignments. You will only earn credit after you have turned in this paper with a signature.
*As it is stated in the 11B course outline, found at http://hpregional.org, “Students will be required to write a scholarly, literature-based research paper.” This means you will NOT be cleared for 12th grade without completing this assignment.
If you understand these expectations, please sign where indicated.
Student____________________________________
Parent/Guardian________________________________________
Works to choose from:
• Beowulf
• Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
• The Canterbury Tales
• Macbeth
• Everyman
• Lord of the Flies
