The general topic for the research paper will be "How does the mass media influence an individual?" Students must translate the general topic into a more specific research question. For example, specific research questions might be: How does watching violent programming affect the behavior of children? Or, How does the presentation of women in the media affect women’s self image?

Your paper should go beyond simple description. It should demonstrate a clear understanding of essential research, key relationships, and important dynamics that arise from a review of the research literature. Most of all, it should indicate your ability to recognize critical implications. In other words, you should be able to explain what is important about your topic and why it is important. Avoid exaggerated introductions and conclusions: statements made in introducing your topic, discussing implications, or drawing conclusions should be supported by evidence in the paper. This is a research paper, not an opinion paper. As such, it should have an introduction, a body (which should be used to report what researchers have learned about your topic), and a conclusion. In addition, first person should not be used. The paper should focus on what researchers have learned about your topic. Your goal is not to prove a point or make an argument, your goal is to present what the current literature says.

In terms of writing, these reports will be expected to meet the same standards as any research paper. In particular, quotations and any facts, figures, opinions, and so on (including charts, tables, diagrams etc.) which are not your own should be attributed to the specific sources in which they were found. You may use any standard reference method so long as you are consistent and thorough (e.g. APA, Turabian, Chicago etc.). The reports should be 7-10 pages in length, typed, double spaced, and should have appropriate margins and page numbers. You should also include a bibliography/footnotes page. As another reminder, your paper should be checked for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and general quality of writing, as these will affect your grade.

You must use at least six scholarly sources beyond the textbook for this class. Source material can be drawn from journals, books, trade magazines, newspapers, industry sources, interviews and various other materials. Journal articles and scholarly books should serve as your primary sources. Popular literature (e.g. USA Today, People magazine) may be used if relevant but they do not count as sources. If you have a question about a source, ask!

The due date and point value for the final paper is in the syllabus. I encourage you to write an outline early on in the course. I'll be happy to look at outlines and give constructive criticism on them. Past experience tells me that those students who turn in outlines for review and start their research early get the higher grades (though a high grade is possible without turning in an outline). This assignment is worth a significant portion of your grade for the course. My best advice is start your research now. Don't put it off until the last minute.

As noted in the syllabus, late assignments will not be accepted without a justifiable excuse (in which case there is no penalty). Should I agree to accept a late assignment the penalty will be a 5 point deduction for every day the assignment is late. It is to your benefit to turn in a paper late rather than not at all.