The Research Paper The research paper should present interesting, insightful ideas that connect to one of the major themes of the course: ex. Cyberspace, Freedom, Education, etc. You may focus the paper however you choose, but be sure the focus is not so broad that you cannot do justice to it in five pages. There should be a clear focus (thesis, controlling idea) stated in the opening paragraph of the paper, developed in an organized, concise, logical manner. Unified and coherent paragraphs must include specific, relevant supporting evidence and examples. Aim for sentences that are varied and well constructed and word choices that are precise, fresh, and vivid. Grammar, punctuation, spelling, and usage should be correct. Research must be thorough, accurately documented in MLA style, and effectively integrated. The sources for the research paper may not be any of the assigned readings. The research paper should be a minimum of five pages double-spaced, with a sixth or last page of Works Cited. Please use a minimum of three critical sources for each. All of these sources must be cited at least once in the paper. You may write a longer paper and use additional sources if you choose. Use the MLA form for the in-text citations and the Works Cited page, and formal, third person English.