This document outlines the objectives and details for a US History 1 research and writing assignment. Students will write a 3-page, double-spaced paper on a historical issue using MLA formatting and at least 3 reliable sources. They must demonstrate critical thinking in their thesis, mastery of written communication, consideration of personal and social responsibility, and inclusion of a visual medium to supplement the writing. The paper should include in-text citations and a works cited page.

1. US History 1: Research and Writing Assignment
Objectives:
· This assignment will engage you in Critical Thinking by
requiring you to explain your thought process, reasoning, and
research when selecting an historical issue and developing and
explaining your thesis statement.
· You will demonstrate a mastery of Written Communication
skills by authoring an academic paper comprised of reliable
sources and evidence. Your final paper will be free of
mechanical and technical errors and demonstrate careful
revision. Your final paper will demonstrate mastery of MLA
Formatting.
· You will demonstrate your mastery of Personal Responsibility
as this assignment will require you to present a specific
historical issue and thesis and explore the ethical issues relating
to the events. You will support your analysis with facts.
· You will demonstrate Social Responsibility as this assignment
will require that you consider cultural competency when
establishing and presenting your historical thesis statement.
You will discuss the effect on the community in relation to your
historical thesis statement.
· You will demonstrate a mastery of Visual Communication by
using an image, graph, photograph, political cartoon or collage
to frame and describe the historical issues discussed in your
paper in a visual way.
Details:
· MLA format: a sample paper in MLA format, MLA template
and MLA tips are available on the History Library Page.
· Three reliable, primary or secondary sources (note that
Wikipedia and Google are not reliable sources).
· 12-point NY Times Font
· Double-spaced
· Three full pages of writing. In text citations must be used

2. within the body of your paper.
· Visual Medium - you must use at least one chart, graph, photo,
political cartoon, collage or other visual representation to
interpret, explain or comment on your paper. This visual
representation is required and is not part of the three full pages
of writing.
· Works Cited Page