Research proposal

MCWP 125 FALL 2019
RESEARCH PROPOSAL

A proposal helps you to narrow down and solidify your topic, working claim, and sources or materials. As Nancy Sommers explains in A Writer’s Reference, “Your objective is to make a case for the question you plan to explore, the sources you plan to use, and the feasibility of the project, given the time and resources available” (368).

Assignment:
Write a proposal to conduct research by addressing, in order, the following questions posed in section
R1-f of A Writer’s Reference (368-369). The final draft is a minimum of 4 full pages to a maximum of 5 full pages. Include a Works Cited which will not be used as part of the required page length.

“Research question. What question will you be exploring? Why does this question need to be asked? What do you hope to learn from the project?” (368).

“Research conversation. What have you learned so far about the debate or the specific research conversation you will enter? What entry point have you found to offer your own insights and ideas?” (368).

“Search strategy. What kinds of sources will you use to explore your question? What sources have you found most useful, and why? Where will you look to find a variety of sources (print and visual, primary and secondary, for example)?” (369).

“Project challenges. What challenges, if any, do you anticipate (locating sufficient sources, [be sure to include] finding a position to take)? What resources are available to help you meet these challenges?” (369).

Follow MLA conventions for papers and the Works Cited pages in A Writer’s Reference under the MLA tab. Upload all drafts to turnitin.com on your Canvas class site before class. Write, date, and sign the Academic Integrity Pledge in your portfolio. Only papers with the completed pledge will be graded.