Research Essay (2,500 words; 10 total sources, 5 of which should be from a database)

With most inventions, there is the belief that it will somehow make our everyday lives better. Whether

it be the telegraph or the telephone to the computer and smart phones, our advancements in this area

of technology have been done in the name of keeping us more connected. The advancements in the

area of social media are rapidly changing our levels. We need to consider if these changes are for the

better or have they come at a cost. Choose one of the following options for your final research project:

1. Has social media made us more or less social?

2. Does social media lead to depression or other disorders?

3. Has social media impacted our physical communities in which we live

4. Is social media addictive?

The final research essay must include:

1. An introduction with complete background information and context, ending with a clear

thesis.

2. A background paragraph

3. A body that consists of 3-5 paragraphs, with each point utilizing one quotation as evidence

from a unique source and cited properly. These should utilize proper internal organization –

Topic sentence, background, evidence, and analysis/interpretation.

4. A rebuttal, acknowledging the opposition. Another quote must be used that supports the

opposition’s side. This must be carefully worded and brief.

5. A conclusion, restating your thesis and recapping your points with a minimum of one sentence

for each point.

6. Works Cited

7. Outline