THE RESEARCH PAPER

The following is a series of statements about research papers. Choose one that you believe is true or one you believe is false. Why do you think its true or false? Where did you get these ideas? Is there logic behind you beliefs? You have to know your thesis before you start. You have to be objective. You cant use the pronoun I. You can use your own experience and observations as evidence. You can use your own writing voice. Youre writing mostly for the instructor Youre supposed to use your own opinions.

Real-World Writing Purposes

Purpose
Express and Reflect

Explanation
The writer expresses or reflects on his or her own life and experiences. The writer often looks back in order to look forward. The writer states a main point and purpose. The author often tries to present the information in a surprising way. The writer focuses on the worth of person, object, idea or other phenomenon. The writer usually specifies the criteria to the object being seen as good or bad.

Inform and Explain

Evaluate and Judge

Inquire and Explore

The writer wrestles with a question or problem. The writer hooks with the problem and lets the reader watch them wrestle with it. The writer seeks to analyze and interpret phenomena that are difficult to understand or explain.

Analyze and Interpret

Take a Stand/Propose a Solution

The writer seeks to persuade their audiences to accept a particular position on a controversial issue. The writer describes the problem, proposes a solution, and provides justification.