Each paper MUST be a minimum of 2500 words. All papers must be written in a
paragraph format, typed double spaced, with one inch margins, a 12 cpi times new roman font,
using APA style citations, including page numbers, a title page and works cited page. Direct
quotes should be kept to a minimum, on average a sentence or two or four lines per page.
PAPERS THAT DO NOT MEET THE 5 PAGES (2500 WORDS) OF TEXT REQUIREMENT
WILL NOT RECEIVE A PASSING GRADE.
No late papers or electronic versions will be accepted. Please do not use folders to place

Paper Expectations:
1. The paper will thoroughly describe a contemporary controversial issue (in the last 6 months)
in American National politics.
will describe the facts related to the issue along with why the issue is important.
2. The paper will discuss both/all sides of the issue. Utilizing sources related to the issue,
describe the controversy surrounding the issue. State what both sides determine is the issue and
their arguments as to why their side is right.
3. Students opinion, provide an opinion on the issue that is related to the arguments
provided earlier in the paper. Students should write this section as an argumentative paper
arguing for your position. You must pick a side and defend that side. Students should avoid
personal experience or observation in the opinion section instead relying upon the arguments
presented in the paper.
Sources:
The best source for this type of paper is magazine articles. Good magazines for this assignment
would be
Time The Economist
Newsweek U.S. News and world report
Online sources are acceptable from a reputable news outlet:
ABC NBC CBS CNN MSNBC NY Times LA Times