You should already have your topic chosen from Week 2, and you should have turned in a Final Paper outline and rough draft that addressed a research question related to a developmental issue.

Using our online library or a public library, find at least five relatively current research articles that address the questions you selected. Make sure the information is not opinion; it must be credible, with no wikis or .org websites. Good articles should include groups of people who were sampled, statistical analyses, and data or evidence with support.

Write a 1,200-word paper discussing what you learned about your topic. Include an introduction, body, supporting subtopics, and conclusion (like your outline and rough draft). Mention in your paper what was measured or tested. Who or what were the samples? Were there any other findings?

You can also use the questions below to help build up your paper (these are not mandatory, just ideas).

What did you expect to find when researching?
Did you find what you expected?
How did you feel (positive or negative) about the research process?
Do you have any suggestions for other ways of finding answers?
Did this information mean anything to you in your career or family?
Please e-mail early and ask questions if you need help.

Don’t forget to submit your assignment.

Your Final Assignment will be graded as follows:

Final

Category

Points

Description

Content

80

The paper is a minimum of 1,200 words in length and covers a research question related to a developmental issue. Major points are stated clearly; are supported by specific details, examples, or analysis; and are organized logically.
At least five sources must be cited from the Online Library.
Sources other than the Online Library must obtain approval from the instructor before conducting the research.
The introduction provides sufficient background on the topic and previews major points. The conclusion is logical, flows from the body of the paper, and reviews the major points.
Grammar and Spelling

35

Paper is well written, using college-level writing skills. Rules of grammar, usage, and punctuation are followed. Spelling is correct. Follows APA format.

Organization and Cohesiveness

35

Paragraph transitions are present and logical, and they maintain the flow throughout the paper. The tone is appropriate to the content and assignment. Sentences are complete, clear, and concise. Sentences are well constructed, with consistently strong, varied sentences. Sentence transitions are present and maintain the flow of thought.

Final Draft Total

150

A quality assignment will meet or exceed all of the above requirements.