Essay
Length:
Between 2000 and 2500 words. This is 8-10 double spaced pages. This includes footnotes or endnotes. Use12 point font and reasonable margins.
Style:
Chicago/Turabian style notes required. See the style guides listed separately for guidance.
Title Page:
Include your name, the professor’s name, the course title and number, the due date, the word count and an appropriate title at the top or on a title page.
Structure:
Introduction, Argument(s), Conclusion
State your argument in the introduction.
Use evidence to support your arguments.
Restate the argument and remind the reader how you have proven it in the conclusion.
How to Use Quotes
Be sure to introduce quotes so your reader knows who is speaking: Jones said, “….” And provide a citation.
Quote sparingly. Use quotations if the words themselves are important or apt. For example, quote if you are about to refute someone’s argument and you want to present this argument or the tone of the argument clearly.Otherwiseparaphrase. Using your own words helps the essay to flow.
How to Avoid Plagiarism
Every time you use someone else’s idea you MUST include a citation.The only exception is when something is common knowledge.
The test: would this information be in an encyclopedia? Then you do not have to provide a reference.
Every time you use someone else’s words, you MUST use quotation marks and a citation.
Write your essay from your notes, not directly from the sources themselves.When you take notes, reformulate the information into your own words, or in point form, and if you take notes word for word, make this clear by using quotation markseven in your notes.
If you paraphrase, it is not enough to alter a few words, and make slight changes to the structure.
For more information see writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/QPA_paraphrase.html
Plagiarism is a serious offence. If I suspect that your assignment is not your own intellectual work I will ask to see your notes and rough drafts. I am required to report academic dishonesty. See the course outline for the official university policy on plagiarism.
Questions? Contact your TA or instructor. We are here to help, even at the last minute.
