Biological theory, social structure theory, social control theory and so forth. However, many people when confronted with theory are inclined to put it in the abstract and unrealistic to the "real world." True, theories can be simple or complex. The fact is we use theory every day in our everyday lives. For example, when you see dark clouds in the sky, you might say it's going to rain. At the end of the day, "no one theory takes in a complete view of crime and criminals,...." (Williams & McShane). Your mini-paper topic is as follows:
Define and discuss what theory is, and what its purpose is.
Your mini-paper is due no later than 11:59p.m., Sunday, November 11th (end of Week 2).
P.S...as indicated in the syllabus, mini-papers are a single-page document (double-spaced). Don't forget to put your name at the top of the paper. It is not necessary to provide a Title Page. Please cite any references from the readings within your narrative. If you utilize outside sources, you may cite them on a separate page. Submit the mini-paper through the Assignments Folder.
As a reminder, many of the errors I see involve fundamental grammatical errors such as spelling and/or punctuation, and [unnecessary] capitalization so please read and re-read your product before submission.
The Mini-Paper is a single page reflection on a question or exercise. The paper is an opportunity for the student to demonstrate their comprehension of the course material and to apply it to the situation presented. The paper is also an opportunity for the student to demonstrate composition skills. Feedback will be provided for both content and composition.
Assignment: In a week that includes a Mini-Paper, a separate assignment will appear in the Discussions section of the classroom. The special Mini-Paper question is NOT to be answered in Discussions. The one-page response is to be submitted as a MS WORD document in your Assignment Folder by the due date specified.
Format: One full page, headed with the student's name. Narrative must be double spaced, with 1 inch margins, written in #12 font. References from the reading materials or outside sources must be cited in the narrative (page number). Outside sources for the mini-paper may be required or optional at the discretion of the instructor. All source material must be cited in American Psychological Association (APA) format on a separate page.