The Paper
In tackling a paper like this, be a prepared and open-minded observer. Have questions in mind when beginning research, whether it be in the library or in the field. Stay open for new information, questions, facts and details. Be ready for surprises. Try to look behind facts and details for meanings and contradictions. Gather more than it’s possible to use so you can choose what is appropriate when you find a focus.
Remember, you are trying to show your journey to answer questions and present what you learned to your audience. Perhaps your focus is the part of the research that proved the most rewarding; perhaps it is the stumbling blocks you had to overcome; perhaps the pursuit of one discovery was the most enlightening; or perhaps your journey switched directions, and that change led you to a new focus.
The choice of details, description and facts are most important for a writer. The materials you choose from your research must advance your journey appropriately. There is no room for fluff. A paper on photography, for example, should probably not include a detailed description of the drive to Santa Cruz, whereas a description of the workshop of a master bicycle builder might provide essential and serious details that reveal the essence of his work and what you learned.
Not every paper will have the same amount of each ingredient. As in good cooking, the cook determines the seasoning and varies the spices accordingly. You may have to adjust your blend. In rereading and editing, there will be things you must cut and others you must develop to make your concoction palatable to your reader.
Your reflection and evaluation are essential–how you handle them is determined by your paper. Perhaps you can reflect at certain places along the way, or you may choose to save your reflection until the end. You must choose based on your project and experience. The watchword, as with the entire Senior Project, is “You decide!”
Most of all, keep in mind that the paper should make what you learned come to life and indicate your enthusiasm and growth. Present what is important to you and make it important to your readers. It should be a paper you will be proud to have anyone read and it should be your work at its best.
Remember, you are trying to show your journey to answer questions and present what you learned to your audience. Perhaps your focus is the part of the research that proved the most rewarding; perhaps it is the stumbling blocks you had to overcome; perhaps the pursuit of one discovery was the most enlightening; or perhaps your journey switched directions, and that change led you to a new focus.
The choice of details, description and facts are most important for a writer. The materials you choose from your research must advance your journey appropriately. There is no room for fluff. A paper on photography, for example, should probably not include a detailed description of the drive to Santa Cruz, whereas a description of the workshop of a master bicycle builder might provide essential and serious details that reveal the essence of his work and what you learned.
Not every paper will have the same amount of each ingredient. As in good cooking, the cook determines the seasoning and varies the spices accordingly. You may have to adjust your blend. In rereading and editing, there will be things you must cut and others you must develop to make your concoction palatable to your reader.
Your reflection and evaluation are essential–how you handle them is determined by your paper. Perhaps you can reflect at certain places along the way, or you may choose to save your reflection until the end. You must choose based on your project and experience. The watchword, as with the entire Senior Project, is “You decide!”
Most of all, keep in mind that the paper should make what you learned come to life and indicate your enthusiasm and growth. Present what is important to you and make it important to your readers. It should be a paper you will be proud to have anyone read and it should be your work at its best.