Transcript Criterion B - Introduction

Criterion B - Introduction
How do I write a GREAT one?
The Rubric Says…
• “Context of the research question is clearly
demonstrated” key words: “context” and “clearly”
• “Explains the significance of the topic and why it is
worthy of investigation” key words: “significant” and
“worthy”
• This is why you need to understand these in your
investigation and knowledge (Rubrics C, D, and E)
• Also, why it is usually written last (second only to
abstract)
Your Intro Can Include…
• Your research question (posed as a question or
statement – think of voice)
• Overview OR background of subject
• Defines any pertinent theories, vocabulary, or
topical buzzwords that are used in paper
• Details the scope of your investigation – sets the
parameters for the reader
… continued
• Identifies major sources or acknowledges
scholarship in the field
• Establishes the type of argument (cause and
effect, comparative, etc.) and structure of the
paper (what you will be discussing in what
order)
• May or may not include thesis – WHAT?!
More on the Thesis Inclusion
• Art of the Introduction – writing style is what
differentiates a “2” from a “1”
• You are encouraged to include your thesis, but many
papers have scored high without a direct thesis
statement
• Science vs. Humanities – Science will have overview,
problem, hypothesis, but no conclusion; that would be
the THESIS
• You can suggest your thesis without directly stating it
(besides… it’s in your abstract)
Nuts and Bolts
• Length: 150 to 1800 words! (usually 250 -500)
• Purpose of introduction is key – example of
functional AP introduction (get in, get out)
• Can be multiple paragraphs
• RESEARCH QUESTION IS ALWAYS
PRESENT
Activity
• Let’s look at some introductions and see what
we can find…
• The difference between a 2 and a 0 introduction
is easy; but, what’s the difference between an 2
and a 1?!
Criterion B: Introduction
Achievement Level
Descriptor
0
Little or no attempt is made to set the
research question into context. There is
little or no attempt made to explain the
significance of the topic.
1
Some attempt is made to set the research
question into context. There is some
attempt to explain the significance of the
topic and why it is worthy of investigation
2
The context of the research question is clearly
demonstrated. The introduction clearly explains
the significance of the topic and why it is worthy
of investigation.
Criteria H & J –
Conclusion and Abstract
The what and how about these two…
The Rubric Says..
Achievement Level
0
1
2
Descriptor
Little or no attempt is made to provide a
conclusion that is relevant to the research
question.
A conclusion is attempted that is relevant to
the research question but may not be entirely
consistent with the evidence presented in the
essay.
An effective conclusion is clearly stated; it is
relevant to the research question and
consistent with the evidence presented in the
essay. It should include unresolved questions
where appropriate to the subject concerned.
The Power of the Conclusion
• This is your last chance to show your brilliance!
Your conclusion is your most powerful,
analytical, authentic VOICE!
• Thus, it should be all you! The final dot on the
“i” in “review”…
Your conclusion…
Should…
State conclusion clearly (your
thesis)
Demonstrate insight (not
regurgitation)
Confirm the significance of
your investigation
Be the end point of your
research process
Demonstrate the logical
conclusion of your
investigation
May…
Create a broader context for
your investigation
Include unresolved questions
from your research - NOT,
“Did you ever wonder”
questions
Address counterarguments
Indicate future issues or
implications of study (think
sciences, politics, human
rights)
The (abstract) rubric says…
• “The abstract clearly states all of the elements
above” – Huh?!
• Elements: “state clearly the research question
that was investigated, how the investigation was
undertaken, and the conclusion of the essay”
• Needs to be NO MORE than 300 words – you
will get a “0” if it is…
The requirements for the abstract are for it to
state clearly the research question that was
investigated, how the investigation was
undertaken and the conclusion(s) of the essay
Achievement Level
Descriptor
0
The abstract exceeds more than 300 words
or one or more of the required elements of
an abstract (listed above) is missing.
1
The abstract contains the elements
listed above but they are not all clearly
stated
2
The abstract clearly states all the
elements listed above.
The Checklist
THIS IS A CHECKLIST – As such, there is no
need for artistry of language. An example:
“This paper explores …”
“The process of investigation included…”
“This investigation concludes that …”
Criterion K and Vive Voce
Holistic Review and “Exit” Interview
Holistic Judgment
• THIS SHOULD BE AN EASY 4 POINTS
• This point value is based on “intellectual
initiative, depth of understanding and insight”
• Have you scored well in C, D, & E?
• Designed to give you more points (if earned)
but could act as a “double deduction” (if you
scored low in C, you may not get all 4 points
here)
Vive Voce
• Purpose: “check on plagiarism and malpractice”
• “Opportunity to reflect on successes and
difficulties in research process”
• “An aid to supervisor’s report”
• Your advisor is looking to evaluate what you
learned; regurgitation is not learning
• Included in your 3-5 hours (10 -15 minutes)