UNIT 6
Writing a Term Paper
Understanding What a Term Paper is.
What is a Term Paper?
According to Wikipedia, a term paper definition is ‘any type of research-intensive paper
authored by students over the course of an academic term. Simply put, a term paper is a
major writing assignment, in an academic setting, that is used to track and evaluate the
students' knowledge about the course. It must be well written, organized and well
researched as it reflects your knowledge of a certain course.
Term Paper Process
Select your topic
Research your topic thoroughly
Prepare your term paper outline
Write your paper
Prepare your cover page
Edit and proof read the final copy
Term Paper Outline
Cover page: It contains the Term Paper Title, your name, course number, your
teacher’s name and the date of the deadline.
Abstract: Usually less than a page long, the abstract describes your paper. It lets the
readers know where the paper is headed, the issue at hand and why the subject was
interesting or important enough that you decided to write about it.
Introduction: this is the overall purpose or thesis statement. It is used to acquaint
anyone reading the paper with the argument being explored. The introduction
should begin with a statement on the topic to be discussed. Give current social
events that are linked or explain the significance of the problem at hand. Write
about how you plan to resolve the issue. Explain your research methodologies and
any procedures that were used for implementing them.
Body: The body of your text should contain the synthesis of your research. Provide
information about the topic so that the reader can further understand what is being
discussed. Don’t forget certain positions pertaining to the issue and the analysis of
the research you have done. This section is typically divided into multiple headings
and subheadings, each linked with various components of the topic.
Heading One: History of the argument. Background history
Heading Two: Extent of the problem being explored
Heading Three: Effects of the problem being explored
Heading Four: Potential solutions
Explain why your research has led you to believe certain things about your subject.
How has your view changed from when you began the project? Has it stayed the
same, and why? Tie everything you’ve been explaining into what you started saying
in your introduction.
Conclusion: End with a summary and a conclusion about the topic in question.
Summarize all the points made and respond to the thesis statement.
Reference list: List all of your sources used in research and in the text. Remember to
list in alphabetical order and following the required citation format.
