Project #3: Problem-Solving Report (150 points, due Tuesday, June 10). Full project instructions are here
In this project, you will identify a specific operational problem at your current or former company or organization (student organizations or other non-profits are fine), research relevant business tools and/or policies, and write a persuasive report (2000-3000 words, in full-block memo format) to describe the problem, your research findings, and your recommendations to solve the problem. If you don't have any professional experience to draw on, you can choose from a set of premade scnearios
Items to Submit
1. A PDF copy of your Project #3 report.
Rubric
Project #3 Report FA24
| Criteria | Ratings | Pts |
|---|---|---|
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeMemo Header (10 points) | 10 to >9.0 ptsA (90-100%)Includes all these format elements: company logo, to, from, subject, and date fields. Subject line clearly establishes topic and outcome.9 to >8.0 ptsB (80-89%)Missing 0-1 format elements. Subject line generally relates to report content. 8 to >6.0 ptsC (70-79%)Missing 2-3 format elements. Subject line is "Project 3" or otherwise unrelated to report content.6 to >0 ptsD/F (50-69%)Missing 4-5 format elements. | 10 pts |
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeDocument Structure (15 points) | 15 to >13.5 ptsA (90-100%)2000-3000 total words. Section headings rhetorically frame the content. Paragraphs are consistently 100-175 words long.13.5 to >12.0 ptsB (80-89%)1500-1999 total words. Section headings mostly copy assignment section names. Most paragraphs are 100-175 words long. 12 to >10.0 ptsC (70-79%)1000-1499 total words. Section headings only copy assignment section names. Some paragraphs are 100-175 words long.10 to >0 ptsD/F (50-69%)0-999 total words. Section headings are absent. Few paragraphs are 100-175 words long. | 15 pts |
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeResearch & Documentation (25 points) | 25 to >22.5 ptsA (90-100%)4+ relevant sources, including 2 academic sources. All quotes, paraphrases, and summaries are cited correctly in APA.22.5 to >20.0 ptsB (80-89%)4+ relevant sources, but missing one or both academic sources. Most quotes, paraphrases, and summaries are cited correctly in APA. 20 to >15.0 ptsC (70-79%)1-2 relevant sources. Some quotes, paraphrases, and summaries are cited correctly in APA.15 to >0 ptsD/F (50-69%)No relevant sources mentioned or cited. | 25 pts |
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeProblem Analysis (50 points) | 50 to >45.0 ptsA (90-100%)Detailed & compelling analysis of the problem, clearly supported by research. Excellent understanding of the community, effects, and potential outcomes.45 to >40.0 ptsB (80-89%)Solid and clear analysis of the problem, adequately supported by research. Good understanding of the community, effects, and potential outcomes. 40 to >35.0 ptsC (70-79%)Inconsistent or confusing analysis of the problem, poorly supported by research. Basic understanding of the community, effects, and potential outcomes.35 to >0 ptsD/F (50-69%)Very little analysis of the problem, unsupported by research. Poor or inaccurate understanding of the community, effects, and potential outcomes. | 50 pts |
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeRecommendations & Counterargument (50 points) | 50 to >45.0 ptsA (90-100%)Solution is clear, detailed, and targeted to the organization and setting. Includes these rhetorical elements: specific actions, a working budget, a timeline, and a list of specific benefits. Acknowledges and responds to one potential objection to the recommendations.45 to >40.0 ptsB (80-89%)Solution is clear and detailed. Missing 0-1 rhetorical elements. Acknowledges a potential objection to the recommendations, but does not respond to it. 40 to >35.0 ptsC (70-79%)Solution has some vague or confusing parts. Missing 2 rhetorical elements. Does not acknowledge any potential objections.35 to >0 ptsD/F (50-69%)Solution is simplistic or only addresses part of the problem. Missing 3+ rhetorical elements. Does not acknowledge any potential objections. | 50 pts |
Total Points: 150