This paper is assigned in lieu of an essay final exam. It affords you the opportunity to delve more deeply into some aspect of the course and to practice the scientific writing skills essential for communicating your ideas clearly. The paper should be 1000-2000 words long (ca. 5-8 pages, double-spaced) and be based on at least three sources.
TopicSelect one of the following options or create your own alternative (subject to instructor approval).
The format may vary depending on the topic, but the standard sections are listed below. Section subheadings are not required but they often enhance clarity.
Introduction/Methods - Statement of the topic, question or hypothesis to be addressed in the paper. You may include a brief statement of your motivation (reason, interest) for selecting this topic.
Results/Data - Present the information you collect that addresses your topic or hypothesis.
Discussion/Conclusions - Discuss the significance of your findings, critique your methods, identify data gaps, and consider options for further research. Statements of personal concluding views are appropriate, so long as they are supported by the data.
Literature cited (see below)
References and citations
1. Sources must be cited in text whenever the information you are presenting is clearly the finding or opinion of a specific author or group of authors, as follows:
Jordan et al. (1987) were the first to describe leaping behavior in penguins.
Bald eagle populations can now support commercial harvest (Bush and Cheney 2001).
2. Complete citations for these sources must be presented (in alphabetical order) at the end of the paper, as follows:
Bush, G.W. and R. Cheney. 2001. Current status of eagles in Texas. Pages 22-44 in Reagan, R. (ed.), Eagles and Oil, Petroleum Press.
Jordan, M., O’Neal, S., and L. Leslie. 1997. Hang time in marine birds. Journal of Avian Sports 33: 1-19.