Term Paper Assignment/Information 1. Prepare a term paper pertaining to any poli

Term Paper Assignment/Information
1. Prepare a term paper pertaining to any policy issue and present competing arguments (pros/cons), as
well as your own opinions and conclusions regarding the issue. You can focus on any policy issue in the
books; such as a court ruling, eminent domain abuse or the general concept of eminent domain (the
taking of private property for public use or benefit), livable community issues (such as high density
housing, mixed land-use, walkable communities, providing transportation choices/alternatives, etc.),
general plans (provides policy and strategies for future city/county growth/development…every California
city and county has a general plan), or other policy issues within the books. You also have the option to
select any public policy issue that is not included in the class books.
2. Your paper is required to include your first and last name, course and paper title, date, have a minimum
of 2,500 words (approximately four pages if single spaced), and include a minimum of two references.
3. Late papers will be deducted 10 points for each late day. This deduction is in addition to any points
deducted from your paper for not meeting the paper requirements in number five (5) below. Please
submit your paper in the online class term paper assignment section and do not email me your paper; I
do not accept emailed papers.
4. Maximum points possible for the term paper are 100.
5. Term paper format/requirements include the following:
• Paper title with your name, topic/subject title, class name, and date.
• Include (write down/label on term paper) and address the following section headings (these section
headings are required): 1. Introduction, 2. Background Information, 3. Analysis/Competing
Arguments (pro/con), 4. Observations and Recommended Policy Changes, 5. Conclusion, and 6.
References (identify a minimum of two different references [i.e. text book and other books, interview,
web site, newspaper, survey, etc.]). The writing style is your choice.
• The term paper will be assessed and evaluated based on the following: 1. Content – complete-ness
and accuracy of the information presented; 2. Organization – the logic, order, and readability of the
information; 3. Expression – the presence of a personal style and the ability to generate interest in
the information; 4. Usage – the use of writing standards and conventions appropriate to the
occasion (this includes spelling, punctuation, word use, grammar, etc.); and 5. Following Instructions
– such as the minimum word count of 2,500 words, using the paper headings, etc