Writing English
Research Topic Proposal
As a formative assessment before we begin to research, you will submit a topic proposal for your research essay. In it, you will anticipate your thesis based on relevant research questions, connect the topic to your interests or major, and include tentative sources as a way to assess available research.
Objectives:
Write a 1-2 page (500-750 words), double-spaced proposal of the student’s specific plan for their research paper.
Template for Proposal:
Why writing about this topic will be beneficial to me—in the future at Madison College, another institution, or a future career: Explain why you’re interested in this topic; what brought you to it.
Research Questions (2-3 needed): What questions need to be asked as you think about your stance on this topic? What questions need to be asked as you approach primary and secondary sources? Your thesis is your answer to these questions.
Thesis: Remember: it is not a question, statement including “I”, or statement of intention, such as, “In this essay, my research will show/prove…”. The thesis statement should be broad enough to support 7-9 pages of research and support, as well as persuasive (including phrases like should or should not) as you try to move your audience to action.
Approach to the subject of my paper: Try to envision a logical way in which to present your material.
What evidence will you use to show that this is a worthy issue to research?
Is this stance rooted in logic? Can it be researched through the use of primary and secondary sources?
Consider the evidence that is needed to support your position. Give a few types of evidence (charts, expert opinion, etc.) and rhetorical appeals you’ll need to use.
Intended audience: Who is this essay written to/for? What does this audience already know? What do they need to know in order to listen to, or even agree with, your stance?
Kinds of sources I intend to use and why they will benefit my paper: Do you have a balanced variety of sources? What strengths will they lend to the paper? How will they help clarify points you want to make? Keep in mind that you have 8-15 sources at your disposal.
Tentative List of References (2-4 full citations): The sources used should be varied – not all Internet sources, for example – and be appropriate for a college-level research paper. Show me that you know how to find and can analyze data from sources. Please at least skim the source before listing it; it is possible/expected for some of your sources to change as you become more deeply involved in research.
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