The primary written assignment in this course will be a Persuasive/Argumentative Paper on a topic that demonstrates how Politics/Politicians influence/manipulate or coerce our understanding of Science.  The topics are not to be summaries or re-iterations of material from our textbooks or materials utilized in class, but rather original topics that are controversial in nature and allow the student to persuade the reader to consider their point of view.

Topics from any field of science may be assigned by the instructor or chosen by the student at the instructor’s discretion. The paper must demonstrate the ability to apply scientific method principles and processes including an understanding of the science, impact of the science through application and demonstration in our daily life and consequences of political interpretation of the science. It is critical that the student develop these skills and knowledge to understand and interpret scientific information and the impact of science on their lives, the environment and society, so that the student is prepared for the 21st century.

The paper will be 2000-3000 words (5-10 pages) in length, double-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font, and using APA format. You will take a side on an issue and write a paper that attempts to persuade the reader to accept your point of view on the topic.

The papers must be submitted to “Turnitin” by Mar. 19 (Noon) and to “LIVETEXT.COM” on or by Mar. 19, 2015. The papers will be graded based on a rubric that will be posted in iTunesU The hard copy will be due on the date indicated (Mar. 19), no electronic submissions will be accepted on the due date unless previously discussed with the instructor. Papers received late or not submitted to “LIVETEXT” or “TURNITIN” will have credit deducted based on the date received.