English Research Paper

Attendance and Homework Check

  • Good morning, conversation between teacher and student (Barret)

  • Teacher confirms receipt of homework

  • Teacher asks if the student has any questions regarding the homework, to which the student replies no.

Submission Format

  • Teacher advises that homework must be submitted as a PDF or in Microsoft Word format (DOC or DOCX) due to compatibility issues with Google Docs.

  • Importance of submitting compatible files emphasized to avoid grading complications.

Research Paper Assignments

  • New assignments discussed: 3.9 and 3.10 focusing on the upcoming research paper.

  • Reminder to convert Google Docs to PDF for submission.

Research Paper Specification

  • Final draft requirements:

    • Length: 1,000 to 1,400 words

    • Must be written in third-person voice and present tense.

    • Requires a clear thesis statement.

    • Citing sources: must include the primary novel and 3-4 credible, scholarly sources.

    • Must adhere to MLA formatting requirements.

    • Includes a works cited page.

    • In-text citations are mandatory for all sources used within the text.

  • Scheduling and deadlines emphasized: Final draft due on the thirteenth at 08:30 AM.

Student's Progress Discussion

  • Teacher assesses the student's comfort level with the research paper requirements.

  • The student expresses the need for more time to complete the assignment.

  • New deadline proposed: one week later (the eighteenth).

Research Process and Skills Development

  • The teacher discusses the value of research and the skills gained through the assignment, which will be useful in future academic pursuits.

  • Encouragement to explore themes in literature, thesis development, and the importance of understanding sources.

Thesis Statement and Novel Selection

  • The teacher emphasizes the importance of the thesis statement when analyzing literature.

  • The student mentions they are using both "Heart of Darkness" and "Frankenstein" in their research.

  • Teacher advises against comparing novels; emphasizes focusing on one primary novel for depth and clarity.

  • In-depth exploration of the selected novel should be the centerpiece of the research paper.

Thesis Refinement

  • The student admits to some confusion regarding their thesis statement related to the two novels.

  • Teacher prompts the student to clarify their thesis statement and explore its components.

  • Focus on themes of power and corruption emphasized.

Research Sources

  • Teacher stresses the necessity for credible sources and guidance on finding scholarly articles.

  • Suggestions for finding sources through platforms like Google Scholar and credible literary critiques.

  • The need to select one primary novel and use others as supportive material is reiterated.

Addressing the Student's Novel

  • The student expresses interest in integrating content from a novel they are writing into the research paper.

  • Teacher clarifies that they cannot use an unpublished novel as a credible source but can use it as inspiration or supportive context.

Understanding MLA Formatting

  • The teacher discusses the importance of maintaining proper MLA formatting throughout the research paper.

  • Guidance on how to format in-text citations, header, and works cited pages is provided.

Review of Student's Prior Assignments

  • The teacher reviews previously submitted assignments, highlighting missing or incorrect submissions.

  • Specific assignments mentioned include:

    • Critical analysis guide results in incomplete submissions.

    • Evaluation of sources assignment where the student must improve specific responses.

  • Emphasis on completing required sections for any outstanding assignments.

Reflection and Document-Based Assessment (DBA)

  • The DBA requires reflective writing discussing lessons learned from units 3.1 to 3.7.

  • The student is tasked with identifying their favorite and least favorite units and their reasons for these feelings.

Conclusion and Next Steps

  • Instructor checks if the student has any final questions before concluding the class.

  • Student is encouraged to focus solely on the research paper with the new deadline in mind.

  • Teacher proposes final submission for the research paper by end of the day on the eighteenth (7 PM).

Final Thoughts

  • The importance of time management and self-assessment of understanding was stressed.

  • Encouragement given to ensure clarity of the thesis statement, appropriate selection of literary sources, and adherence to formatting guidelines.

  • Closing remarks wishing the student good luck with their paper and next steps outlined, including reviewing submissions and preparing for the next class.