Comprehensive Study Guide: Annotated Bibliography and Persuasive Research Paper (Essays 3 & 4)

Overview of Essays 3 and 4

  • Essay 3 (Annotated Bibliography):

    • Due Date: October 28.

    • Purpose: Serves as the foundational research phase for Essay 4.

    • Format: MLA style. Double-spaced citations followed by single-spaced, non-indented annotations (approx. 150–200 words each).

    • Source Requirements: Minimum of 12 sources (including at least 3 scholarly journal articles and 4 books from the library or Kindle).

  • Essay 4 (Persuasive Research Paper):

    • Length: 10 pages.

    • Purpose: Present a persuasive argument advocating for a specific change or solution.

    • Source Requirements: Incorporate at least 8 sources chosen from the 12 annotated sources in Essay 3.

Annotation Structure

Each annotation paragraph must address the following:

  1. Summary: 2–3 sentences explaining what the source is about.

  2. Target Audience: At least 1 sentence identifying the intended audience.

  3. Evaluation: A couple of sentences evaluating source reliability, authority, and any explicit bias.

  4. Application: A statement on whether and how the source will be used in Essay 4.

Topic Selection Guidelines

  • Choose a topic of personal interest that presents a genuine, arguable debate.

  • Avoid:

    • Obvious non-controversies where there is complete agreement.

    • Core religious or deeply emotional topics where mind-changing through research is impossible.

  • Be open to broadening or revising the topic if initial searches yield insufficient research material.

Research Requirements

  • Register and attend a required in-person Library Research Assistance Workshop at the LC State Library.

  • Utilize library databases such as EBSCO and consult with librarians to collect valid sources.