Students will collect and analyze data on a topic related to course content and write a 5-8 page research paper (length does not include bibliography). In this assignment, you will identify and describe a research question/topic of sociological interest (i.e. why this topic is important), conduct research via secondary sources (books, articles, internet sources*), and write a research paper.  The paper must consist of a sociologically mindful examination of a social phenomenon. 

The explication of the topic must include an analysis using at least one of the three major sociological paradigms (functionalist, conflict, or interactionist).  The research paper must contain a title page, introduction, body/findings, conclusion and a bibliography.  Students must use at least 5 secondary references.  All written assignments must be typed, double-spaced in a 12-point font, in APA style.