You will identify the local social problem you wish to address with the following research project and papers. The proposal can be in outline format. This informal paper must include:
- Your initial research question: what social issue are you going to spend the remainder of our class addressing, analyzing, questioning and hypothesizing solutions for?
- How will you compile data about this issue as a local problem? Do you live in an area or within a community that you believe requires an advocate of change or will you need to apply an outsider's perspective?
- A draft of your thesis: this does not need to be a perfectly crafted statement, but consider addressing the three major components of a thesis.
- Acknowledgment of the initial assumptions associated with your topic. Address the popular commentary that proponents on both sides of your argument use to promote their position.
- Identify possible fallacies associated with your issue. How will you address these fallacies?
- Brainstorm research strategies that will help you find solutions beyond the surface assumptions of your argument.
- Consider the preliminary conclusions you may be making with your research project.