Inquiry-Based Research Essay

For the final essay of this class, each student will formulate a central question, based on the ideas and readings we have explored over the course of the semester, and investigate that question through research, presenting their findings in one cohesive and polished essay of at least 8 pages (not including a work cited page).

 

Description

The objective in developing this inquiry-based research essay is probably not like other research essays with which you may be familiar. In an inquiry-based essay, the development of a research question is the cornerstone of the essay, providing a guideline for you to follow your research wherever the information takes you. The careful formulation of a solid research question about your topic is crucial to ensure your inquiry will be effective. Once you have developed a question–and that question has been approved by your instructor–you’ll conduct research that will help you answer it.

Your question should grow out of the texts and ideas explored across this semester, and from your own personal investment in psychopathology and literature.Consider the characters and concepts from our readings in a real world setting and locate a question you feel needs answering. Ask yourself: how might you apply all you have explored in your two sections to have some impact in our world and in the lives of others?

Once your research question is finalized, you will look for information that will help you explore and, perhaps, answer your question. Your aim here will be to make use of the research that you discover to help you to shape your essay. To do that, you’ll need to find a variety of sources that are relevant to your topic and read them carefully enough that you’ll be able to summarize their main points. You’ll want to be sure that you’ve included as least one opposing point of view.

The following types of research must be incorporated into your essay:

• At least 2 creative, literary pieces from your writing section (short stories, essays, or your novel)
• At least 3 academic sources (some of these may come from material covered in your topic section)
• At least 2 popular media sources
• An interview with a member of a non-profit organization, or an observation of an event organized by a non-profit organization (you may conduct this interview yourself, or utilize an existing interview)

In class you will brainstorm, post a topic proposal, peer review and outline/draft, and submit your final essay. Your work will be graded by both of your instructors. Your topic instructor will assess the research and substance of your work, and your writing instructor will address the language and construction of your essay overall.

 

Final Essay Check List

Have I:

• formulated and clearly stated an adequate research question that seeks to illuminate an area within the field of psychopathology?
• included 2 literary sources, 3 scholarly/academic sources, 2 popular sources, and 1 interview in my essay?
• applied citation style conventions in both in-text and end of text references?
• Proofread my work for both surface errors and made improvements on style and language?
• Reached the minimum required page count?
• clearly labelled, titled, and dated my paper?
• submitted on time through blackboard?

 

Assignment Time-line

11.24– Research Question Brainstorm

12.03– Essay Topic Proposal

12.08– Draft/Outline + Peer Review

12.15– Final Essay is Due