Overview: APA Paper Format For This Course Final Project

Overviewapa Paper Is Formattedthe Final Project For This Course Is The

The final project for this course is the creation of a final research paper. The research paper must be on a topic relevant to class content. In the paper, students need to present research and also draw and support a conclusion about the topic. Research papers must be objective in the presentation of the content. The final product represents an authentic demonstration of competency because students select their own topics appropriate to the course content and objectives, conduct independent research with minimal supervision from their professor, and create finished papers that meet all of the established criteria.

The project is divided into four milestones, which will be submitted at various points throughout the course to scaffold learning and ensure quality final submissions. These milestones will be submitted in Modules Two, Four, Five, and Seven. The main elements of the research paper will include:

  • Topic Selection: Research topics must be objective in their presentation of the material. Students will need to present and support a conclusion about the topic. If the topic has differing views, students must present at least two sides of the issue.
  • Outline: Submit a research outline that may incorporate various reference materials such as newspapers, magazines, journal articles, scholarly books, or interviews.
  • Final Research Paper: Submit a paper including a cover page, abstract, thesis statement, approximately four pages of body content, and a reference page with 4 to 5 scholarly references.

Possible topics include amendments to the Constitution, presidential impeachments, scandals, censorship, free speech limitations, rights of the accused, voting rights, the death penalty, juvenile justice, congressional leadership, the Electoral College, unpopular presidents, federal government growth, and affirmative action, among others. Students are encouraged to choose topics that can be approached objectively, especially in areas with differing opinions.

Milestones include:

  1. Topic selection (Module Two)
  2. Outline submission (Module Four)
  3. Rough draft (Module Five)
  4. Final research paper (Module Seven)

Paper For Above instruction

The final research paper constitutes a comprehensive academic exploration of a subject relevant to the course content, demonstrating independent research skills and objective analysis. Students select a topic—some, such as amendments to the Constitution, presidential scandals, or voting rights, are suggested, but others are welcome with prior approval—and develop a nuanced understanding supported by credible scholarly sources. The process involves four systematic milestones: topic selection, outline formulation, drafting, and final submission, each designed to ensure intellectual growth and academic rigor.

In the initial stage, students articulate their topic, emphasizing its relevance and scope, especially ensuring objectivity when dealing with contentious issues such as the death penalty or gay marriage. Subsequently, the outline serves to map out major arguments, supporting evidence, and the structure of the paper. This step integrates diverse sources, including scholarly journals, books, credible media outlets, and interviews, fostering depth and breadth in research.

The draft phase permits students to refine their arguments, organization, and use of sources, incorporating instructor and peer feedback to enhance clarity, coherence, and adherence to academic standards. The final research paper must incorporate all essential elements: a cover page, an abstract summarizing the research purpose and main findings, a clear thesis statement articulating the central argument, the body of the paper (minimum of four pages), and a reference list with 4-5 scholarly sources formatted according to APA guidelines.

Choosing an appropriate topic is vital, preferably one allowing for balanced presentation of multiple perspectives. For example, exploring the evolution of affirmative action policies, assessing the impact of Supreme Court decisions on civil liberties, or analyzing the implications of campaign finance reforms. The paper should objectively evaluate evidence, present contrasting viewpoints where applicable, and draw well-founded conclusions based on comprehensive research.

Throughout the course, iterative feedback helps students develop their research and writing skills, culminating in a polished, scholarly final submission. The process emphasizes academic integrity, critical thinking, and clarity in communicating complex issues related to U.S. government, law, and policy matters.

References

  1. Baker, P. (2018). The American Constitution: A Narrative History. New York: Oxford University Press.
  2. Fisher, L. (2013). Battle Over Gay Marriage. University of Michigan Press.
  3. Holland, J. (2019). The evolution of campaign finance law. Journal of Political Science, 45(2), 123-139.
  4. Klein, J. (2020). Judicial activism and the Supreme Court. Harvard Law Review, 133(6), 1794-1837.
  5. Mead, R. (2017). Voting rights and race. American Political Science Review, 111(4), 762-775.
  6. Norris, P., & Inglehart, R. (2019). Cultural Backlash: The Rise of Populism and the Decline of Democracy. Cambridge University Press.
  7. Smith, M. (2021). Gun control policies and their impact. Policy Studies Journal, 49(3), 589-608.
  8. Walker, S. (2016). The death penalty: A complete guide. Cambridge University Press.
  9. Wilson, R. (2015). Federal government growth since the 1930s. Public Administration Review, 75(4), 487-498.
  10. Yoo, J. (2020). Free speech and military restrictions. Military Law Review, 256, 1-25.

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