What This Document Is
This resource is a detailed guide outlining the expectations for a major research paper assignment within a University Writing (WRIT 1301) course at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. It functions as a comprehensive rubric, breaking down the criteria used to evaluate student work and offering insights into achieving top performance. It focuses on the qualities of work that demonstrate excellence across various aspects of academic writing.
Why This Document Matters
This guide is essential for any student enrolled in WRIT 1301 who is preparing to submit their research paper. It’s particularly valuable *before* you begin writing, allowing you to understand the instructor’s priorities and tailor your work accordingly. It’s also useful during the revision process, serving as a checklist to ensure all key areas have been addressed. Understanding these criteria can significantly improve your grade and strengthen your overall writing skills. Students aiming for a high score will find this especially beneficial.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This guide details *what* constitutes excellent work, but it does not provide specific examples of how to *achieve* that level of quality. It won’t offer sentence-level edits, suggest research topics, or provide pre-written content. It assumes a foundational understanding of research paper structure and academic writing conventions, as covered in the course itself. It also doesn’t replace the need for direct feedback from your instructor.
What This Document Provides
* A breakdown of expectations for key paper elements, including introductions and conclusions.
* Guidance on effective argumentation and the logical organization of ideas.
* Criteria for the appropriate and critical use of sources in academic writing.
* Standards for clarity, cohesion, and style in writing.
* Expectations regarding proper formatting, citation, and avoidance of plagiarism.
* A focus on the importance of proofreading and attention to detail.
* Considerations for demonstrating overall English proficiency and course outcome achievement.