Residential Schools Canada

The Research Paper
The required length for this assignment is 2000 words. Papers notably longer or shorter than the required length (more than +/- 300 words) will be penalized. As in the proposal, please follow the standard format for papers. Use only one side of the paper, double space, choose a legible 12 point font, and leave enough room in the margins (one inch minimum) for comments. The title of your paper, your name, student number, the course name and the date of submission should appear on the title page. Please staple the papers together.
The research paper should present an argument, supported by proper evidence. Do not submit a simple narrative of the events described in your sources.
A good paper has an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction explains why the topic of the paper is of interest, articulates the thesis, and may include a general outline of the supporting arguments. The body of the paper draws on evidence from published scholarly sources on the topic and presents the evidence in an analytical and systematic fashion to support the thesis presented in the introduction. The conclusion summarizes the findings of the paper and may also include some generalizations about the broader significance of these findings.
As you craft your paper, be aware that other arguments often have a great deal of credibility. The best authors present alternative interpretations and opposing arguments, and weigh them against their own. Doing so demonstrates an understanding of the historical debates surrounding the topic, as well as the ability to evaluate the evidence and discern the merits of alternative viewpoints.
Remember to place quotations within quotation marks, and to cite your sources in footnotes or endnotes. Provide footnotes or endnotes for all quotations, paraphrases, statistics, interpretations, and facts that are not common knowledge. All papers must include footnotes (or endnotes) and a bibliography. Failure to properly document sources constitutes plagiarism. Plagiarism is a serious academic offense which carries significant penalties.
If you missed the class on essay writing, it is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the standards of academic integrity. I am available to assist you during office hours. If you cannot see me during office hours, schedule an appointment.
As in the proposal, you must make use of a minimum of four scholarly sources, including at least one book. Since this is an independent research project, it should be based upon your own research and should not make extensive use of the course lectures.
Lastly, the paper should be written in proper English and be attentive to matters of style, grammar, spelling, and overall clarity of expression. Grammar, spelling, and style will figure prominently in your instructor’s evaluation of your paper. A good paper is not a first draft. Always proofread and edit your paper carefully before submitting it.

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