Thesis | [10] |
- Clear, concise definition of the issue being tackled.
- Issue deals with computers and society (i.e., not purely technical,
but something about the impact of computer technology on society).
- Statement of paper's thesis (position on the issue).
- Statement of opposing/alternate views on the issue.
- Clear definition of terms used in thesis.
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Argument Development | [10] |
- At least two or three points in support of the paper's thesis.
- At least one or two points in support of opposing/alternate positions.
- Main points are clear and distinct (not using the same point twice by
rephrasing it slightly).
- Respectful and objective rebuttals, if any, of opposing positions
(rebuttal of every opposing point is not absolutely necessary).
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Organization | [5] |
- Clear and concise introduction and conclusion sections.
- Clear outline (introduction, what the main points are, conclusion)
(outline need not be separately drafted, but should be clear from the
organization of the paper).
- Paragraph divisions at appropriate intervals following the paper's
outline and train of thought.
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Diction/Grammar | [5] |
- Clear and fluent use of language; concise and not flowery.
No run-on sentences.
- Proper English grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
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Sources | [5] |
- A reasonable number (at least 2-3, not more than 10-20)
of appropriate and reliable references cited.
- Encyclopedias (e.g., Wikipedia) are not themselves authoritative sources,
however they may be useful in leading you to primary sources.
- Concise background context of each source and its relevance to the issue.
- Appropriate use of quotes from sources to illustrate / back up
argument.
- Clear and sufficient bibliographic referencing:
- Does not need to follow MLA style, but should be enough for the
reader to find the source and know what authority it comes from.
- Published work is preferable, but webpages may be cited if
they are authoritative primary sources.
- References should be clear and concise. No long, inscrutable URLs.
(The MLA
doesn't recommend including URLs in citations.)
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