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Assignment Three: The Feature Story (Researched Article) Assignment Overview For the final writing assignment, students will write an in-depth, thoroughly researched article about a science-related topic for an intelligent, curious, but non-specialized audience. The article should resemble the type of writing found in popular science publications. The paper may take several forms: Argument-driven article Informative article Inquiry essay (with or without fieldwork) Feature story Researched narrative Profile piece Human-interest article Regardless of the format chosen, the article must be: Well researched and intellectually engaging Written to capture and maintain reader interest Topic Selection Requirements Choose a Topic Select a science topic, issue, or question that: Interests you personally Has significance for readers Can sustain substantial research Possible disciplines include: Physics Chemistry Biology Ecology Neuroscience Psychology Sociology Computer Science Technology Architecture Engineering Design Topics outside traditional science fields may also be considered if approached through a scientific perspective. Examples: The psychology of music preferences Neuroscience and storytelling Scientific analysis of audience responses to literature Technology's influence on creative expression Develop an Angle Your article should not merely present information. It should have a clear focus or angle. Consider: What specific aspect of the topic will be explored? What question will the article answer? Why should readers care? What is the article attempting to accomplish? Assignment Purposes This project is designed to help students: Explore topics that matter to them Analyze issues within broader contexts Social Historical Political Economic Scientific Strengthen research skills Refine the writing process Understand organizational strategies Apply those strategies effectively in original writing Recommended Sources for Inspiration Examples of publications that model the expected style include: Discovery Magazine Wired Magazine National Geographic Scientific American Students may also consult science sections of major newspapers. The Researched Article The final paper should provide a comprehensive examination of the selected topic. Writers should: Demonstrate expertise on the subject Present informed analysis Share critical insights Incorporate research effectively Submission Process Submit a rough draft for review. Submit a final polished version for grading. Format and Content Requirements Formatting MLA or APA style Length Minimum: 2,300 words Approximately 7–8 pages Sources Minimum: 8 sources At least 2 sources must be academic or professional journal articles Assessment and Evaluation Criteria The instructor will evaluate both content quality and technical presentation. Poor formatting, editing, or presentation can negatively affect the overall evaluation. Evaluation Questions Topic and Purpose Is the subject clearly identified? Is the purpose clear and meaningful? Organization Is the paper purposefully organized? Does each section serve a clear function? Examples of effective organizational elements: Hook Case study Historical example Guiding question Critical reflection Analysis Focus and Flow Is the paper compelling? Does it maintain a clear focus? Does it keep readers engaged? Research Integration Is research effectively incorporated? Does evidence support or inform the central idea? Does research flow naturally within the article? Assignment Requirements Does the paper meet the minimum word count? Does it meet source requirements? Writing Quality Is the paper polished and cohesive? Is it well organized? Has it been carefully edited? Style Does the article maintain a formally conversational tone appropriate for a popular science audience? Formatting Is MLA or APA formatting applied correctly? Mechanics Are grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure correct? Quick Checklist Before Submission ✅ Science-related topic selected ✅ Clear article angle established ✅ Written for a general audience ✅ Minimum 2,300 words (7–8 pages) ✅ Minimum 8 sources used ✅ At least 2 scholarly/professional journal articles ✅ MLA or APA format followed ✅ Research integrated effectively ✅ Strong organization and flow ✅ Edited for grammar and punctuation ✅ Rough draft completed before final submission ✅ Final polished article submitted