Any topic (writer’s choice)

The purpose of a research paper is to allow students to practice the craft of history writing at a
more sophisticated level than is possible in other history assignments. A research paper takes the
form of an argument supported by evidence. A research paper also requires that you find material
about a topic outside of the courses assigned readings.
Students may choose a topic of their choice. Students can start with a fairly broad area, but they
will need to focus their topic as their research progresses.
Students are expected to complete a research paper proposal due October 9 (4-5pgs) with
an annotated bibliography of at least 5 sources (5%). Papers must make use of primary and
secondary sources and must utilize at least 10 bibliographical items, of which no more than 2 can
be Internet sources. Students are encouraged to make use of autobiographies, narratives,
newspapers, and interviews, digital and other primary sources.

Students are expected to complete a research paper proposal (4-5pgs) with an annotated bibliography of at least 5 sources. Papers must make use of primary and secondary sources and must utilize at least 10 bibliographical items, of which no more than 2 can be Internet sources. Students are encouraged to make use of autobiographies, narratives, newspapers, and interviews, digital and other primary sources.

* An annotated bibliography is a list of citations to books, articles, and documents. Each citation is followed by a brief (usually about 150 words) descriptive and evaluative paragraph, the annotation