Anna Mills, Instructor
English 1A
Research Paper Assignment

Here are some key elements of the research paper project:
•	A topic of your choice that relates to global warming.  It should require you to do research beyond what we’ve already learned in class. Choosing a topic with a focus specific enough to cover in four to six pages is tricky.  You may want to refine your topic as you do research. 
•	A thesis for the paper as a whole.  
•	Your paper can be either informative or persuasive.  You can educate the reader about a particular topic or you can try to convince the reader of a particular course of action.
•	Topic sentences for each paragraph
•	An introduction and conclusion
•	4-6 pages total
•	A Works Cited page with at least five sources.  We will visit the library as a class on April 17th to learn more about research strategies.
•	MLA format
•	You may choose to work with a partner on your research, but you will still need to write separate papers. Any four words in a row that are the same as a classmate’s will count as plagiarism.

Possible topics: Politics
One of the presidential candidates’ views 
Media coverage of global warming in the presidential primary race
The next step after the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012
Legislation on global warming in California
Local efforts to combat global warming
Critical evaluation of one organization’s efforts with regard to global warming

Possible topics: Economics
Business opportunities created by global warming or by the fight against it 
The advantages or disadvantages of Cap and Trade plans 
Energy companies’ positions 
Climate change, poverty, and development

Possible topics: Personal
How could global warming affect your life? 
Choose a country or city outside the U.S. to which your family has ties.  How will global warming affect this place?
Choose one course of action you would like to pursue in relation to global warming, research it, and explain why you have chosen it.

Possible topics: Science
Global warming’s effects on a particular ecosystem, such as a landscape you love
The effects of global warming on a particular species, such as the penguin or polar bear
The science of climate prediction (choose a specific topic within this field)

Possible topics: Technology
Solar technology
Geothermal energy
Carbon sequestration technology
Clean coal technology
The debate over nuclear energy
Fuel efficiency or hybrid vehicles
Gasoline alternatives such as biodiesel
Energy efficiency in the home
Energy efficiency in architecture