Biology Research Assignment

By Michael Lowry

Purpose:

• To become aware of and develop an appreciation for science in the world around us.

Target Audience:

• Students of biology

Assignment:

Directions:

Use 3-5 sources that are reference books, textbooks, or articles in periodicals. Do not use encyclopedias.

Deadlines:

• Topic approval - Quiz grade
  The topic must be defined (explained) in one clearly written paragraph.

• Rough draft - Lab grade
  Two copies required

• Works Cited - Quiz grade
  This page will be submitted with the rough draft. Have this page checked for form and accuracy of information before signing the paper.

• Peer Editing - Lab grade

• Final Paper - Special Project grade
  Two copies required

• Summary of Final Paper
  Students will be responsible for writing a one-page summary of another classmate's final paper.

• Presentation - Quiz grade

• Peer Evaluation - Quiz grade
  Evaluation of Presentations

Some Suggested Topics:

Immunology Energy systems Geology Artificial intelligence Tropical rain forest

Genetics Medicine Animal behavior Internet Pathology

Lasers in medicine Environmental Botany Marine biology Entymology

Evaluation Criteria:

• Content - 75%
• The paper includes the assigned subtopics.
• Each section is clearly explained.
• Any vocabulary not commonly known is defined within the test of the paper.
• The paper gives accurate information.
• The paper presents one specific aspect of science.
• The paper describes the current impact of that specific aspect on the world around us.

Structural Considerations - 25%

• The paper is written to be read as a complete text.
• The paper uses complete sentences.
• The paper uses correct grammatical structure.
• The paper uses correct spelling.

Grading Check Sheet:

_____ The paper covers the assigned topic.

_____ The student explains the material in his own words.

_____ The paper is well organized, with

_____ a well-developed introductory paragraph,

_____ use of supporting details in the following paragraphs, and

_____ a summary or concluding paragraph that demonstrates the writer's understanding of the paper.

_____The student uses correct grammar and punctuation.

_____The student correctly uses scientific terminology.

_____The paper clearly explains information.

_____The student demonstrates knowledge of the topic.

Presentation Critique Sheet: Name of Presenter:

Title of Presentation:

(Circle the number that appropriately ranks the student's use of the following elements, using 5 as the highest. Do not rank an element that is not applicable.)

Clarity of Language:	1 2 3 4 5
Public Speaking Ability:	1 2 3 4 5
Use of visual aids, support materials:	1 2 3 4 5
Explanation of Content:	1 2 3 4 5
Handling of Subject:	1 2 3 4 5
Relevance of Topic to Course:	1 2 3 4 5

Additional Comments:

Critiquer:

Fellows Collection Index

Activities Exchange Index