Philosophy 1301 Research Project

Overview of the four steps:

1. Research Project Topic Proposal
2. Do Your Research
3. Research Project Essay
4. Research Project Essay Presentation

Step 1: Research Project Topic Proposal

• Choose Your Topic: Pick a topic from a list we will study in class.
• Create a Research Question: This is the question that your thesis will answer.
• Create a Rough Thesis Statement: This is a single sentence that sums up your main
  idea and why it’s important.
• Write a Short Paragraph: Explain why you chose this topic.
• Summarize What You Already Know: Without doing any research yet, write down
  what you know about the topic.

Step 2: Do Your Research: Find SIX sources:

• 2 articles from the GC Library (Academic Search Complete)
• 1 video from Crash Course or PhilosophyTube (*note: other YouTube videos are
  not permitted)
• 1 chapter from our textbook, The Great Conversation
• 1 ebook chapter from Pop Culture and Philosophy books OR 1 interview
• 1 additional source (from any of the list above)

Step 3: Research Project Essay

• Write a Thesis-Driven Essay: Your essay will have five paragraphs:
  • Introduction: Start with a hook, then a definition of a key term from your topic
    (use Merriam-Webster online dictionary and cite it correctly). Summarize your
    general topic. End the paragraph with your thesis.
  • Philosophical Concept Definition and Explanation: In your own words, be able
    to explain the philosophical concept and the key philosophers that are known for
    this concept. This paragraph should be at least 250 words.
  • Three Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph will support your thesis with evidence
    and analysis. It should start with a topic sentence, followed by your own words
    about the topic. Introduce and quote from one of your sources. Discuss how the
    quote helps you prove your thesis. Repeat this process as needed.
  • Conclusion: Wrap up your argument in a concise paragraph that includes a
    restated thesis, a short summary of each of your body paragraphs and a call to
    action.
• Use MLA Formatting: Make sure your essay follows the MLA style, including in-text
  citations and a Works Cited page.

Step 4: Research Project Essay Presentation

• Edit Your Essay: Shorten your essay so it can be read aloud in three minutes.
• Make a Video Presentation:
  • Introduce Yourself: Say your name, the class, and the professor’s name.
  • Read Your Thesis: Explain briefly why you chose your topic.
  • Read Your Edited Essay: Present your main ideas.
  • Thank Your Audience: End your presentation by thanking the viewers.
• Create a Visual Presentation: Use PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Canva to make a
  visual presentation that goes along with your video.