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Once you select a topic, you will need to identify for your topic and write an outline of your research topic paper. This outline can follow the following format as far as section headings. But you do not have to follow it. You can add more sections. But there must be at least five sections highlighted by * and section titles. Include at least 100 words per section that you use.
Abstract
Introduction*
Background
Define your topic*
Explain your topic*
Defend your position about your topic*
Conclusion*
Summary
Future Research Recommendation
Incorporate at least one reference from articles listed within the online APUS library.
•Written communication: Written communication is free of errors that detract from the overall message.
•APA formatting: Resources and citations are formatted according to APA style and formatting.
•Length of paper: typed, double-spaced pages with no less than two pages.
•Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12 point.
Criteria
Exemplary
Accomplished
Developing
Beginning
Did Not Attempt
Criterion Score
Thesis and Support
20 points
The writing has a articulated thesis and subordinate ideas supported by reliable and relevant evidence based on original research.
17 points
The writing has a articulated thesis supported by appropriate evidence and sound logic. Minor gaps in logic and argument may appear.
15 points
The writing has a thesis and related subordinate ideas supported by clear thinking and appropriate evidence. Logical arguments may be one-sided or incomplete.
13 points
The writing needs a clearer thesis and/or appropriate related subordinate ideas. Fuzzy logic may be evident and adequate supporting evidence is lacking.
0 points
No thesis present or the student did not attempt.
Score of Thesis and Support,/ 20
Organization
20 points
The writing flows smoothly and logically from a well-defined thesis. It contains an appropriate introduction, conclusion, and smooth transitions.
17 points
The writing is organized logically and flows well. An introduction and conclusion are evident, but transitions may be smoother.
15 points
The writing demonstrates rudimentary organization and logical structure, but ideas may be more fully developed and supported by more appropriate evidence.
13 points
The writing is noticeably lacking in organization. There is no clear introduction nor conclusion and ideas are neither carefully nor fully developed. Supporting evidence is lacking.
0 points
The paper is almost impossible to follow or understand or the student did not attempt.
Score of Organization,/ 20
Style
20 points
The writing engages the reader through an original prose style appropriate to the subject. Language is precise. Sentences are varied but not noticeably so. Active voice is apparent.
17 points
The writing keeps the reader’s attention through a carefully crafted prose style Language chosen is appropriate to the subject, but may call attention to itself in minor ways.
15 points
The writing is clear but could be expressed in a style more appropriate to the subject. It is jargon-free but may require a more complete explanation of some terms used.
13 points
The writing lacks clarity and is sometimes confusing. The language chosen is not appropriate to the subject nor the assignment.
0 points
The paper is completely unclear or completely off topic or the student did not attempt.
Score of Style,/ 20
Writing Mechanics
20 points
The writing is free of grammatical, proofreading, and stylistic errors. All quoted material is properly documented and cited.
17 points
The writing may exhibit a few minor errors in grammar or style, but do impair the flow of the reading. Most quoted material is properly documented and cited.
15 points
The writing could benefit from additional proofreading, as some errors impede the flow of the reading. Sources are documented and cited but need to show greater consistency.
13 points
The writing exhibits substantial errors in grammar and style so that the basic ideas are lost. Sources are overly quoted and not adequately documented nor cited.
0 points
The majority of the paper is substantially quoted or closely paraphrased or the student did not attempt.
Score of Writing Mechanics,/ 20
APA Format
20 points
References and in-text citations are included, appropriate and the paper is formatted correctly.
17 points
References and in-text citations are included, but one is formatted incorrectly. Other APA formatting is correct.
15 points
References and in-text citations are included, but both are formatted incorrectly, but the paper format is in proper APA.
13 points
References, citations, and APA format are all incorrect.
0 points
There are no references or citation or the student did not attempt.
Score of APA Format,/ 20