Overview
Students will collect and analyze secondary data on a topic related to course content and write a 3-6 page research paper (length does not include bibliography). In this assignment, you will identify and describe a research question/topic of sociological interest, conduct research via secondary sources (books, articles, internet sources*), and write a research paper. The paper must consist of a sociologically mindful examination of a social phenomenon. I have chosen. domestic violence,
The examination of the topic must include an analysis using at least one of the three major sociological paradigms (functionalist, conflict, or interactionist). The research paper must contain a title page, introduction, body/findings, conclusion and a bibliography. Students must use at least 5 secondary references. All written assignments must be typed, double-spaced in a 12-point font, in APA style. The paper should include:
- Introduction (Your topic and thesis)
- Background and significance (Why or how is this significant to society?)
- Research Design and Methods (You are conducting secondary research; use one of the three main sociological theories)
- Paragraph describing the sociological theory you are using (functionalism, conflict, interactionism) -- define it
- Paragraph explaining how you will examine your topic using that theory
- Concluding paragraph
- References (List at least five references you intend to use for your Research Paper)
I recommend using the resources provided in MSJC Library Research Guide for Sociology.
*Internet sources must be reputable sources. Look for websites that end in .org, .edu, and .gov.