Falcon Ridge Senior Project

Format for every typed assignment is as follows:
12 pt font
Double spaced
Arial or Times New Roman (Pick one and keep it for all
assignments)
1 inch margins
No additional spacing between paragraphs
3rd person ONLY
Senior Project
Revised 2017
.5 Credits (English or Electives)
Falcon Ridge Academy
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Table of Contents
Senior Project Schedule

Project Instructions/Time Suggestions 2
Calendar of Events 3
Pre-Approval
Pre-approval Instructions 4
Pre-approval Letter Example 5-6
Pre-approval Rubric 7
Research Logs and Proposal
Research Logs and Topic Map Instruction 8
Research Log 9-14
Topic Map 15
Research Log and Topic Map Rubric 16
Research Proposal Instruction 17
Research Proposal Example 18-19
Research Proposal Rubric 20
Outline of Senior Paper
Outline Instructions and Rubric 22
Senior Project Outline Form 23-26
Senior Project Paper
Senior Paper Instructions 30
Senior Paper Example
Title Page 29
Table of Contents 30
Body of Paper 31-33
Works Cited 34
Work Cited Guidelines 34
Senior Paper Rubric 35
Work Cited Rubric 36
Senior Project Presentation
PowerPoint Requirements 38
Oral Presentation Guidelines 39
Senior Project Presentation Rubric 40
Senior Project Artist Element
Artist Element Instruction and Rubric 42
1
Senior Project Schedule
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Project Instructions/Time Suggestions
Managing your time is the most important element to be successful at your senior project. Here is a
list of how long you should expect to spend on each section.
Section Time
Pre-approval 2-3 days

Brainstorm Topic 0-1 day
Write Letter 1-2 days
Results 1 day
Research Proposal 5-10 days

Research Log 1-5 days (depends on access)
Research Proposal Paper 4-10 days
Outline of Paper 2-3 days

Topic Map 1 day
Outline 1-3 days
Senior Paper 5-14 days

Rough Draft 1-5 days
Rough Draft Typed 2-3 days
Final Paper 4-5 days
Presentation 5-7 days

PowerPoint 3-4 days
Write Speech 1-2 days
Deliver Speech 1 day
Artist Element 1-7 days
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Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Calendar of Events
Directions: Please use the calendars below to create a schedule for managing your time and due dates. Check with your
senior project advisor about the schedule you are proposing.
The schedule is due prior to starting the Pre-Approval Letter
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Pre-Approval
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Pre-Approval Letter Instructions
Directions: You need to write a 1-2 page letter that describes the following topics: background and
purpose, specific focus, and methodology. Each section must include at least one paragraph (except
methodology) that is at least 7-9 sentences long. This must be TYPED.
Background and Purpose: This section will discuss what is your topic and what purpose does
the topic serve?.
Specific Purpose: This is a narrower version of your topic and include the subtopics your
paper will discuss.
Methodology (2-3 paragraphs): This describes how you will track your research, what
plagiarism is, how you will link your research to your specific focus and what is the difference
between paraphrasing and direct quotes. It is also required to write one paragraph about what
a reliable source is and how you would evaluate your specific sources used.
Please use the Pre-Approval Letter Example on the next page to help you format the document
correctly.
Format for every assignment is as follows:

12 pt font
Double spaced
Arial or Times New Roman (Pick one and keep it for all assignments)
1 inch margins
3rd person (no: I, me, you, your, myself, yourself, mine, etc.)
4
Students Name (First and Last)
Pre-Approval
Date
Pre-Approval for Senior Project
Background and Purpose
What is the topic, or better yet, a question that the senior paper will answer? Why
would this topic be appropriate for the senior paper and who may it help? For example,
the topic could be the benefits of school. The purpose would be to encourage students
to stay in school and graduate. The background would be any definitions that will be
used in the paper. It should also include a brief description of the research that was
used when coming up with the topic. Note: this paper is in third person.
Specific Focus
Narrow down the focus. Dont let the topic be so broad that it needs to be a
textbook in order to come close to the purpose. Be specific. Take the topic and
contemplate one strand of it. For example, if the purpose is find out how staying in high
school can affect a persons self esteem, then the specific focus would be researching
the positive self esteem associated with staying in school.
Methodology
How will the research be organized? Will the articles found on the Internet or out
of the book be printed or copied? What is important to write down as articles/quotes are
found on the Internet? Where will the source information be stored at or written down
at? How will the researcher know if the information is linked to the specific focus? Write
down the difference between paraphrasing and direct quotes. Also write a brief
description (2-3 sentences) of what plagiarism is and how a person can avoid it by
sourcing correctly.
5
What makes the sources reliable? Explain what a reliable source is and why it is
considered so. Research what is considered a reliable source and give at least 7-9
sentences describing reliable versus unreliable sources. List the types of sources that
will be looked for when doing the research and explain why those types are considered
to be the best.
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Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Pre-Approval Letter Rubric
Criteria 4 Exemplary 3 Accomplished 2 Developing 1 Beginning
Organization Accurately uses Mostly uses correct letter Some noticeable errors Several noticeable errors in
correct letter format format (heading, greeting, in use of correct letter use of correct letter format
(heading, greeting, introduction, body) format (heading, (heading, greeting,
introduction, body) greeting, introduction, introduction, body)
body)
Content- Letter clearly meets Letter clearly meets the Purpose of section is Purpose of section is unclear
Background the guidelines guidelines unclear Main idea is not supported by
and Purpose Appropriate Some explanations or More explanations or explanations or facts
explanations or facts facts used to support the facts need to be used to Letter rambles; hard to follow
used to support the main idea support the main idea or understand
main idea Somewhat hard to follow Hard to follow Tone is inappropriate for
Easy to follow Tone is generally Tone is too formal or too intended audience
Tone is appropriate appropriate for intended informal for intended
for intended audience audience audience
Specific the guidelines guidelines unclear Main idea is not supported by
Focus Appropriate Some explanations or More explanations or explanations or facts
Methodology the guidelines guidelines unclear Main idea is not supported by
Appropriate Some explanations or More explanations or explanations or facts
Appearance Typed, using correct Letter typed with few Letter typed with Letter not typed; wrong format
spacing, font, and problems in spacing, font, frequent problems in used and hard to read
format or format spacing, font, or format
Language Accurate use of One or two mistakes with More than two mistakes Incorrect use throughout the
Usage punctuation and punctuation or grammar in punctuation or letter of punctuation or
grammar One or two spelling errors grammar grammar
No spelling errors Mostly 3rd person More than two spelling Frequent spelling errors
3rd person errors distract from letter
Does not use 3rd person Does not use 3rd person
often
Totals (24 pts)
7
Research Logs/Proposal
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Research Logs and Topic Map Instructions
There must be 12 sources used in the research logs/proposal. Each source must be
printed off/copied and a research log must be filled out!!!!!!
Directions: As you research your topic please fill out the log so you can use it to create your research
proposal/works cited. Often students do not keep accurate records and cannot later find where they
have learned the information. This leads to plagiarism. In college and in the workplace plagiarism
can have serious consequences including failing, getting fired, and humiliation.
The research log should include the following:

1. Name of Article, Website, Book, etc.
2. Author or Authors
3. Website URL (if applicable)
4. Publisher (if applicable)
5. Date Published
6. Direct Quotes
7. Paraphrases
Direct Quotes Instructions: Direct quotes can have the authors name in the sentence such as:
Burke (2012) has stated, comprehending, interpreting, evaluating, and appreciating those texts is
one element that essential understanding the value of textbooks.
Or it can have the in text citation after the quote:
For example, comprehending, interpreting, evaluating, and appreciating those texts is one element
that essential understanding the value of textbooks. (Burke, 2012).
Paraphrase Instructions: A restatement of speech or writing that retains the basic meaning while
changing the words. A paraphrase often clarifies the original statement by putting it into words that
are more easily understood. You rephrase or restate what the author said in your own words.
Topic Map Instructions: In order to keep the topic/subtopics focused, there is a topic map that you
will fill out as you do your research logs. This will clarify what the main topic, the subtopics, and the
paragraphs need to be. For each subtopic and paragraphs you should have a minimum of 1-2 quotes
or paraphrases that will support the sections. This must be shown to the advisor and approved prior
to writing the next section.
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NOTE: For each source used you MUST fill out a
research log entry!!!!
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Research Log
Name of Article, Website, Etc.
Author: Website address:
Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:
Direct Quotes:
Indirect or Paraphrased Information
Direct Quotes:
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Direct Quotes:
Direct Quotes:
10
Direct Quotes:
Direct Quotes:
11
Direct Quotes:
Direct Quotes:
12
Direct Quotes:
Direct Quotes:
13
Direct Quotes:
Direct Quotes:
Note: Copies can be made per your request.

Also you should print out at least one page for each source so you can refer back to them
later. You will not always have access to the internet.
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Topic Map 15
Research Log & Topic Map Rubric
Topic Map All sections are filled out Most sections are filled Topics/subtopics are The topic map is not filled
with topics/subtopics out with topic/subtopics not organized out or organized
The topics/subtopics are Some topics/subtopics The topics/subtopics do The topics/subtopics are
organized and relate to are organized and relate not relate to each other not related to each other
each other to each other
Research Log- There are 12 different There are more than 10 There 5-10 different There are less than 5
Required sources written down in different sources written sources written down sources written down in
Sources the research log. down in the research in the research log. the research log.
For each source there is log. For each source there The student did not print
at least 1 page printed For most sources there is at least 1 page off a page for each
off and stored in binder. is at least 1 page printed printed off and stored source.
off and stored in binder. in binder.
Research Log - The direct quotes follow the The direct quotes used The direct quotes are not There were no direct
Direct Quotes guidelines in the directions follow some of the written down correctly but quotes used for any of
guidelines are logged the sources
Research Log - The paraphrase follow The paraphrases used The paraphrases are There were no
Paraphrases the guidelines in the follow some of the not written down paraphrases used for
directions guidelines correctly but are any of the sources
logged
Research Log- All information is written Most information is written Some information is Less than 5 sources are
Accuracy down and where it is not down and where it is not written down written down. These
applicable a N/A is applicable a N/A is sources still lack some of
written in that section written in that section the required information.
Quality All sources cited can be Most sources cited can Some sources can be Few sources cited can be
/Reliability of considered reliable be considered reliable considered reliable considered reliable
Sources and/or trustworthy. and/or trustworthy. and/or trustworthy. and/or trustworthy.
Variety of Excellent variety of Good variety of sources; Adequate variety of Poor variety of sources;
Sources sources; research log cites four types of sources; cites three cites two types of
Electronic or Print shows more than four sources. types of sources. sources.
Magazine types of sources.
Books
Websites Journals
Databases
Total (28 pt)
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Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Research Proposal Instructions
Format for every assignment is as follows:

12 pt font
Double spaced
Arial or Times New Roman (Pick one and keep it for all assignments)
1 inch margins
3rd person only
Directions for the Annotated Bibliography:

This section gives the directions for the annotated bibliography. This section should not
be included in the paper. The annotated bibliography should look like the one in the research
proposal. The purpose of an annotated bibliography is to prepare for the Work Cited page in the
research paper and to help the student evaluate how they will use the sources in their paper.
The student should literally be able to copy and paste the source from the annotated
bibliography page to the Work Cited page in the paper if they wanted to. There should be 12
annotated bibliographies included in this section. The requirements include the following:
List each source you will use in your paper.
Each source will be in its own paragraph.
This list needs to be alphabetical order according to the authors last names. If no
author is listed put the article name first and use that to alphabetize the paper.
Note: if using Microsoft Word to get the hanging indentation correct use CTRL+T.
The indentation is important; seek help if needed.
Example of correct format of a web article is below. You may have to use the MLA
guide for some of your sources.
Last name, First initial., & Last name, First initial. Title of Article in Quotations Marks.
Title of Book, Website, Journal, Newspaper in Italics. Any version numbers.
Publisher. Year of publication. Page numbers. Medium such as Web or Print. Date
you accessed material in this format: 12 Nov 2016.
Next, write a paragraph as to what this source is about. This paragraph should
have indented margins for the entire paragraph. Explain why and how it will be
used in the paper. Include any direct quotes or paraphrases and explain what
section/topic in the senior paper this source will be used.
Intext Citation: (write author(s) last name, year)
Students Name (First and Last)

17
Senior Capstone
Date
Research Proposal for Senior Project
Review of Literature
Write a healthy paragraph (at least 7-9 sentences) regarding the articles that have
been found. Explain how they link to the topic and meet the purpose of the paper.
Mention a few of the article names and link them to the subtopics/topics in the senior
paper. Mention any textbooks or books that will be used as sources.
Next paragraph give a bit of an overview as to subtopics which will be used in the
senior paper. Link the subtopics to some of the research found. Summarize one or two
direct quotes that will be used and where they fit in the senior paper. For example, what
do the studies show? How do these studies fit in the subtopics in the paper? The topic
map should be used to write this paragraph.
Scheduled Tasks
What are the tasks that will be performed to achieve the senior research project?
Give a description of the organization of the senior paper. For example, list the main
topics and then the subtopics under those sections. What organization tool will be used
to write the senior paper? Describe the number and type of sources that will be used for
each section. List any further research that might be needed. For example, is one area
in the research paper lacking sources and information?
Key Terms
List phrases and words that will come up in the chosen subject. This includes all
the terms that were used to find the sources. Please do not use a bulleted list, just
include a leading sentence, and then list the terms.
Annotated Bibliography
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Burke, Jim. English Teacher's Companion: Heinemann. 2012. Print.
This is a text book which is from the English teachers library. It is written by a
current English teacher, Jim Burke. This text contains ideas that are currently
being used in his classroom and duplicated by other English teachers around the
United States. Inside this text are tried and proven methods in regards to student
learning in the classroom. For example, comprehending, interpreting, evaluating,
and appreciating those texts is one element that essential understanding the value
of textbooks. This text fits in the senior paper under the subtopic text evaluation.
This text proves the that textbooks needs to be evaluated in order for the textbooks
to be appreciated by students and staff.
in text citation: (Burke, 2012)
Ehrenreich, B. Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America.
owl.english.purdue.edu. 614/03. 2001. Web. 11 Feb 2016.
In this online book of nonfiction based on the journalist's experiential research,
Ehrenreich attempts to ascertain whether it is currently possible for an individual to
live on a minimum-wage in America. Taking jobs as a waitress, a maid in a
cleaning service, and a Walmart sales employee, the author summarizes and
reflects on her work, her relationships with fellow workers, and her financial
struggles in each situation. This fits in the subtopic of the importance of going to
high school economically. It shows that minimum-wage jobs do not support
individuals and most individuals without high school graduations end up in these
positions.
in text citation: (Ehrenreich, 2001)
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Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Research Proposal Rubric
Content (not Letter clearly states Letter clearly states the Purpose of letter is Purpose of letter is unclear
including the purpose purpose unclear Main idea is not supported
annotated Appropriate Some explanations or More explanations or by explanations or facts
explanations or facts facts used to support facts need to be used to Letter rambles; hard to
bibliography)
used to support the the main idea support the main idea follow or understand
main idea Somewhat hard to Hard to follow Tone is inappropriate for
Easy to follow follow Tone is too formal or too intended audience
Tone is appropriate Tone is generally informal for intended
for intended audience appropriate for audience
intended audience
Appearance Typed, using correct Letter typed with few Letter typed with frequent Letter not typed; wrong
and spacing, font, and problems in spacing, problems in spacing, font, format used and hard to
Organization format font, or format or format read
Language Accurate use of One or two mistakes More than two mistakes in Incorrect use throughout the
Usage punctuation and with punctuation or punctuation or grammar letter of punctuation or
grammar grammar More than two spelling grammar
No spelling errors One or two spelling errors Frequent spelling errors
3rd person errors Multiple 3rd person errors distract from letter
One or two 3rd person Not written in 3rd person
errors
Accuracy of All sources are cited Most sources are cited Some sources are not The sources are not cited
Citing according to MLA according to MLA style. cited according to MLA correctly to MLA style.
Sources style. The student included style The student did not include
The student has some of the in text The student only included the in text citations
included the in text citations some of the in text
citation citations
Quality All sources cited can Most sources cited can Some sources can be Few sources cited can be
/Reliability of be considered reliable be considered reliable considered reliable and/or considered reliable and/or
Sources and/or trustworthy. and/or trustworthy. trustworthy. trustworthy.
Variety of Excellent variety of Good variety of Adequate variety of Poor variety of sources; cites
Sources sources; cites more sources; cites four sources; cites three types two types of sources.
Electronic or Print than four types of types of sources. of sources.
Magazine sources.
Books
Journals
Databases
Websites
Writing All annotations are Most annotations are Some annotations are Most annotations are lacking
fluency of thoughtful, complete, thoughtful, complete, well written but some are in completeness, thought,
annotations and well written. and well written. lacking in completeness, and/or writing quality.
thought, and /or writing
quality.
Totals (28 pts)
Note: A student must receive a 3 or 4 in the Accuracy section before moving to next section!
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Outline of Senior Paper
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Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Outline of Paper Instructions
Directions: Please fill out the topic map and then the Outline for the Senior Paper. The topic map gives you a
general idea of which subheadings you will use. The Outline gives you an idea of what topics will be covered
for each paragraph under each subheading. This assignment does not need to be typed. Note: you can use
an alternative topic map if you get prior approval.
Rubric for Outline

Outline of Outline has each side Outline has some of the Outline few of the No information about the
Paper - Main heading filled in with side headings filled in side headings filled in side headings is listed.
topic descriptions. with descriptions. with descriptions. The topic map is not
The paper outline follows The paper outline The paper outline related to the the outline
organization
the topic map follows the topic map does not follow the of the paper
(from the
somewhat topic map
topic
headers)
Outline of Outline lists all of Outline lists some of Outline lists few of No topic/paragraph
Paper - paragraphs that relate to paragraphs that relate paragraphs that information is given
Supplemental the side heading/sub to the side heading/sub relate to the side under each side
topic. topic. heading/sub topic. heading/subtopic
information
The paragraph The paragraph The paragraph
(under the
descriptions are accurate descriptions are descriptions are not
side heading) and include sources to be sometimes related to related to the topic
used in that section and the topic map map
are directly related to the
topic map
Outline of Each side heading section Some of the side heading Some of the side The side heading
Paper- has at least 1-2 quotes or sections have quotes or heading sections have sections do not have
Sources and paraphrases identified to paraphrases identified to quotes or paraphrases quotes or paraphrases
be used in the section. be used in the section. identified to be used in identified to be used in
Citations
The Source for the citation The Source for the the section. the section.
Used in each
(in text citation) is included citation (in text citation) is The Source for the There is no Source for
side heading on the outline included on the outline citation (in text citation) the citation (in text
section is not included on the citation) included on the
outline outline
Outline of Outline is hierarchically Outline follows most rules Outline tends to not be No outline completed
Paper - organized, with clear main of organization, but may structured or key points
Organization points and an easy to pose some challenges in are difficult to recognize
follow format structure and interpret
and
readability
Totals (16 pts)
Falcon Ridge Ranch

Senior Project
22
Outline of Paper
I. Title of Paper ________________________________________
II. Introduction Ideas for Senior Paper (this should answer the ideas of what is the paper about, why are
you writing, what are you proving)
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Thesis Statement: (last sentence of the Introduction Paragraph and should include words like this
paper will show the following is true about . And then list the side headings
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
III. Side Heading/subtopic: ________________________________________________________________

A. Introduction Ideas (for section)
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
B. Topic/Paragraph Heading:_________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. -___________________________________________________________
C. Topic/Paragraph Heading:_________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
D. Topic/Paragraph Heading:_________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
E. Conclusion Ideas (for section)
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
IV. Side Heading/subtopic: ________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
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1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. -___________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
V. Side Heading/subtopic: ________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. -___________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
VI. Side Heading/subtopic: ________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
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1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
VII. Side Heading/subtopic: ________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
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VIII. Conclusion Ideas for whole paper. Restate your thesis from the introduction, put your
recommendation, draw conclusions. ___________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
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Senior Paper
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Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Senior Paper Instructions
Length of Paper
The paper must be 15 pages long. This includes 3 pages of organization (Title Page, Table of
Contents, and Work Cited). There are 12 pages for the body.
General Format for Reports

Use MLA format; use Owl Purdue as an online source that shows MLA format. The Senior
Paper Example gives an example of how to format your paper.
Fonts
Use either Times News Roman or Arial and 12 point font.
Margins
Margins should be 1 inch for every margin (L/R/T/B).
Spacing
Reports are always double spaced with indented paragraphs (.5 tab).
3rd Person
This paper is in third person only.
Order of Pages
Title Page
Table of Contents
Body of Paper
Work Cited Pages
28
Senior Paper Example (Title of Paper)
Subtitle of Paper
Students Name
Falcon Ridge Academy
Date
29
Table of Contents
Focus 3
Side Headings 3
Paragraph Headings 3
Topic Title 3
Backing Your Topics 4
Block Quote 4
Works Cited 5
30
Title of Senior Paper
Focus
Write a healthy paragraph (at least 7-9 sentences) that introduces the topic of the
senior paper. The focus should indicate the purpose of why the senior paper was
written. The audience should be able to read the focus and know exactly what the senior
paper will prove and why they should continue to read the paper.This section should
include as the last sentence the thesis for the entire senior paper. The thesis may
include a sentence linking all the side headings together.
Side Headings/Subtopics
Side headings may be used to identify general sections of one or more
paragraphs. The side heading follows capitalization rules for titles; it is Bold, 12-point
font. Each side heading sits alone on a line. According to the outline section there
should be a minimum of five side headings used in the paper. In the side headings
section there should be a mini-thesis written down which lists the paragraph headings
that are linked to the side heading topic.
Paragraph Headings. Paragraph headings, like the one to the left, are used to
identify paragraph subjects. The outline of the senior paper will indicate what paragraph
headings should be used. Not all paragraphs will have a paragraph heading. The
paragraph headings should be directly linked or related to the side heading that is used
prior to it. A paragraph heading is indented (.5 tab), and it is capitalized like other titles
and headings. It is usually not a complete sentence but it ends with a period and is
followed by two blank spaces before the first sentence of the paragraph. It should be
bold. The following sections give an example of what a side heading and paragraph
heading should look like in the senior paper and include the linking thesis between them.
Topic Title (example)

31
When a person is writing their senior paper they need to remember the side
heading is the main topic for the next couple of sections. The paragraph headings that
follow a topic are directly related to the topic title (side heading). The last sentence in the
paragraph should be a thesis for the section. Please see the next sentence as an
example. In order to write a successful topic the following need to be discussed:
sourcing, backing the topics, and block quotes.
Sourcing. For each section, sources must be used. A person can use block
quotes, quotations, and paraphrases. Just make sure that there is an in text citation for
each of the sources used in the paper. Remember directly after a quote or paraphrase
there should be an in text citation which will look like the following: (Last Name of Author,
Year of Publication). Please note that a period goes after the parenthesis. You can also
use the authors name (DATE) in the text. Example:
Burke (2012) has stated, comprehending, interpreting, evaluating, and
appreciating those texts is one element that is essential for understanding the value of
textbooks.
Or it can have the in text citation after the sentence that includes the quote. Example:
As the research has shown, comprehending, interpreting, evaluating, and
appreciating those texts is one element that is essential for understanding the value of
textbooks. (Burke, 2012).
Backing Your Topics. Each topic should be backed up by sources but should
also have the writers opinion and internal thoughts. For every quote the writer needs to
interpret it and explain what the quote just said in their own words and how it relates to
the topic. Tell the audience what it means, why it was important enough to cite in the
paper and how it leads to the next section. This is a formal paper; therefore, do not use
first and second person voice. Words such as I, me, you, you're, mine, my, etc.
should not be used.

32
Block Quote. When inserting a block quote (a direct quotation that is more than
40 words or four lines) use the following format:
Place direct quotations that are 40 words, or longer, in a freestanding block of
typewritten lines, and omit quotation marks. Using Ctrl M when on Microsoft Word
will accomplish this task. Start the quotation on a new line, indented 1/2 inch from
the left margin, i.e., in the same place where a new paragraph would begin. Type
the entire quotation on the new margin, and indent the first line of any subsequent
paragraph within the quotation 1/2 inch from the new margin. Maintain double-
spacing throughout. The in text citation should come after the closing punctuation
mark. (Owl Purdue, DATE).
If the writer continues the paragraph after the block quote do not indent. Remember that
the block quote should be explained after the quote is used. Please explain how the
quote relates to the topic and why it is important.
Conclusion
In conclusion....
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Works Cited
Last name of author, First initial of author. Title of the Article in Quotes. Title of paper,
book, journal, or website in italics. Publisher Name, Location. Date. Medium, such
as Print or Web. Page Numbers. Date retrieved in this format: 24 Mar 2016.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * End of Example* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Works Cited Guidelines
1. The work cited page must be in alphabetical order.

2. The work cited page must be double spaced.
3. Each paragraph should have a hanging indent (see above).
4. Examples
a. Example of source cited from a book:
Burke, Jim. English Teacher's Companion: A complete guide to classroom, curriculum,
and the profession. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann. 2012. 206. Print.
b. Example of an academic journal from a database:
Smyth, A. M., Parker, A. L., & Pease, D. L. . A Study of Enjoyment of Peas. Journal of
Abnormal Eating 8.3 (2002):120-125. Web. 29 Apr 2016.
c. Example of a website used as a source:
Bernstein, M. A List Apart: For People Who Make Websites. Purdue U, 28 Nov. 2013.
Web. 10 May 2016.
34
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Senior Paper Rubric
CATEGORY 4 3 2 1
Introduction/ exceptional introduction that proficient introduction basic introduction that weak or no introduction
Thesis grabs interest of reader and that is interesting and states topic but lacks of topic.
states topic. states topic. interest. papers purpose is
thesis is exceptionally clear, thesis is clear and thesis is somewhat clear unclear/thesis is weak
arguable, well-developed, and a arguable statement of and arguable. or missing.
definitive statement. position.
Quality of paper is exceptionally information relates to the information relates to the information has little or
Information/ researched, extremely detailed, main topic. main topic, few details nothing to do with the
Evidence and historically accurate. paper is well-researched and/or examples are thesis.
information clearly relates to the in detail and from a given. information has weak or
thesis. variety of sources. shows a limited variety of no connection to the
sources. thesis.
Support of exceptionally critical, relevant consistent connections some connections made limited or no
Thesis/Analysis and consistent connections made between evidence between evidence and connections made
made between evidence and and thesis thesis. between evidence and
thesis. good analysis. some analysis. thesis.
excellent analysis. lack of analysis.
Organization/ exceptionally clear, logical, clear and logical order somewhat clear and lacks development of
Development of mature, and thorough that supports thesis with logical development with ideas with weak or no
Thesis development of thesis with good transitions between basic transitions between transitions between and
excellent transitions between and within paragraphs. and within paragraphs. within paragraphs.
and within paragraphs.
Conclusion excellent summary of topic with good summary of topic basic summary of topic lack of summary of
concluding ideas that impact with clear concluding with some final topic.
reader. ideas. concluding ideas. may introduce new
introduces no new information. introduces no new introduces no new information.
information. information.
Style/Voice style and voice are not only style and voice style and voice style and voice
appropriate to the given appropriate to the given somewhat appropriate to inappropriate or do not
audience and purpose, but also audience and purpose. given audience and address given
show originality and creativity. word choice is specific purpose. audience, purpose, etc.
word choice is specific, and purposeful, and word choice is often word choice is
purposeful, dynamic and varied. somewhat varied unspecific, generic, excessively redundant,
sentences are clear, active throughout. redundant, and clichd. clichd, and unspecific.
(subject-verb-object), and to the sentences are mostly sentences are somewhat sentences are very
point. clear, active (SVO), and unclear; excessive use of unclear.
to the point. passive voice.
Grammar/Usage control of grammar, usage, and may contain a few contains several spelling, so many spelling,
Mechanics mechanics. spelling, punctuation, punctuation, and punctuation, and
almost entirely free of spelling, and grammar errors. grammar errors which grammar errors that the
punctuation, and grammatical detract from the papers paper cannot be
errors. readability. understood.
Totals (28)
35
36
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Works Cited Rubric
Appearance Typed, using correct Typed with few Typed with frequent Not typed; wrong format
and spacing, font, and problems in spacing, problems in spacing, font, used and hard to read
Organization format font, or format or format
Accuracy of All sources are cited Most sources are cited Some sources are not The sources are not cited
Citing according to MLA according to MLA style. cited according to MLA correctly to MLA style.
Sources style. The student included style The student did not include
The student has some of the in text The student only included the in text citations
included the in text citations some of the in text
citations citations
Quality/ All sources cited can Most sources cited can Some sources can be Few sources cited can be
Reliability of be considered reliable be considered reliable considered reliable and/or considered reliable and/or
Sources and/or trustworthy. and/or trustworthy. trustworthy. trustworthy.
Variety of Excellent variety of Good variety of Adequate variety of Poor variety of sources; cites
Sources sources; cites more sources; cites four sources; cites three types two types of sources.
Electronic or Print than four types of types of sources. of sources.
Magazine sources.
Books
Journals
Databases
Websites
In Text Each quote or Most quotes or Some quotes or None of the quotes or
Citations paraphrase is cited paraphrases are cited paraphrases are cited paraphrases are cited
correctly in the senior correctly in the senior correctly in the senior correctly in the senior paper
paper using the paper using the proper paper using the proper using the proper MLA format
proper MLA format MLA format. MLA format
Matching of All the in text citations Most of the in text Some of the in text The in text citations do not
In Text have a reference on citations have a citations have a reference have a reference to the work
Citations and the work cited page. reference to the work to the work cited page. cited page.
All the work cited cited page. Some of the work cited The work cited sources are
Works Cited
sources are used and Most the work cited sources are used and not used or cited with an in
Page
cited with an in text sources are used and cited with an in text text citation in the paper
citation in the paper cited with an in text citation in the paper More than 3 matching errors
citation in the paper Less than 3 matching
Less than 1 matching errors
error
Plagiarism There is no question There are some areas There are 3-4 areas that There are multiple areas that
of plagiarism in the that should have been should have been sourced should have been sourced or
paper. sourced or do not or do not sound like the do not sound like the writer
sound like the writer writer wrote them. wrote them.
wrote them.
Totals (28 pts)
****NOTE: If a student scores a 1 or 2 in the Plagiarism area they will be required to re-write the paper
fixing the errors and source them properly. If the student decides not to fix these errors, then the
result is an incomplete for the entire senior project.
37
Senior Project Presentation
38
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
PowerPoint Guidelines
Directions: Create a 15 slide or more PowerPoint Presentation that correlates with your senior
project. Please use the guidelines below. Your presentation needs to be 10-15 minutes. You will be
marked down for reading the slides directly.
1. Be Consistent-each slide must look like it belongs with the others

a. Background color or design same on each slide
b. Font face and color the similar on each slide
c. Border, bullets, lines, graphics similar on each slide
d. Layout and placement similar for each slide
2. Uncluttered
a. Do not use complete sentences or paragraphs
b. Be concise
c. Dont list long items just key words
d. Never use all CAPS for titles
e. Show importance by font size only
f. Use bullets to list and guide the eye
g. Expand the spacing to fill the screen and make it readable
h. Line up LIST to the left
3. Use parallel structure
a. Start each line the same way for each slide; dont mix verb forms
b. Capitalization should be the same on each line and each slide
c. Make all lists and bullets left justified not centered
4. Spelling, grammar, and usage must be perfect
5. SOURCES, SOURCES, SOURCES!!!! You must source your powerpoint as if it were the
senior paper. If you are using others quotes, data, etc., then it needs to be sourced. This will
lower your grade if not done.
39
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Oral Presentation Guidelines
Directions: You will be giving a 10-15 minute presentation of your senior project. Note: Visual
element must be displayed.
Guidelines to Writing a Speech

The basic speech format is simple. It consists of three parts:
1. An opening or introduction
a. Include your thesis from your paper.
b. List/preview your main points for the presentation.
c. Example of Preview: If you are talking about school your main points would be
introduced like this: School is important because it helps us prepare for the future, is
required for graduation, and makes us a better person.
2. The body where the bulk of the information is given
3. An ending (or summary)
a. Summarize by restating your preview.
b. Link it back to the introduction.
c. Draw conclusions and end strong!
Guidelines to a Successful Oral Presentation
1. Prior to starting the presentation.
a. Introduce yourself and greet the committee members by name.
b. Give the committee members have a copy of the Presentation Rubric.
c. Have the slide show up and ready on the first slide.
d. Have your artistic element displayed.
e. Have all doors closed
2. Dress for Success!
a. No T-Shirts (except with prior approval)
b. Wear your Black and Whites if possible.
3. During the presentation.
a. No Gum!!!!
b. Stand, do not sit or lean against something
c. Use note cards (DO NOT use your senior paper)
d. Keep eye contact with audience
e. Try not to pace around
f. Be mindful of your speech especially um, uh, aaah, or you know phrases
g. Dont point to the audience if they have a question just nod your head
40
Presentation Rubric
Criterion 4-Excellent 3-Good 2- Satisfactory 1-Needs

Improvement
Introduction (1) Gets attention Meets any three of Meets any two of the Meets only one of
(2) Clearly identifies topic the four criteria four criteria the four criteria
(3) Establishes credibility
(4) Previews the main
points
Body/Main Main points are clear, Main points are Main points Main points
Part well supported, and somewhat clear, need clarity are not clear
sources are documented some support, and and support and have no support
some documentation lack of and no sources or
sources and documentation
documentation
Conclusion (1) Reviews main points Reviews main points Brings closure Does not bring
(2) Brings closure , brings closure; the
(3) Memorable closure audience is left
hanging
Eye Contact Eye contact with audience Eye contact with Eye contact with Little or no eye
virtually all the time audience less than audience less than contact
(except for brief glances at 80% of the time 75% of the time
notes)
Use of Use of language Use of language Use of language Use of language is

Language contributes to does not have causes potential inappropriate
effectiveness of the negative impact, and confusion, and/or
speech, and vocalized vocalized pauses vocalized pauses
pauses (um uh er etc.) (um uh er etc.)
(um uh er etc.) not distracting are distracting
not distracting
Body Body language, gestures, Body language, Body language, Body language,
language and facial expressions gestures, and facial facial expressions and gestures, and
adds greatly to the expressions gestures facial expressions
message compliment message lack variety and are lacking or
spontaneity inappropriate

PowerPoint Power Point well chosen Minor problems with Significant problems No Power Points
and presented Power Points with Power Points
Displaying of Visual aids well chosen Minor problems with Significant problems No visual aids. No
Visual and presented. Linked to visual aids. Not with visual aids. Not visual element
Element the topic mentioned in mentioned or displayed displayed or created
Presentation during presentation
Time Within allotted time Within 10% of Within 20% of allotted Not within 20% of
10-15 minutes allotted time time allotted time
Totals (36)
41
Senior Project Artistic Element
42
Falcon Ridge Ranch
Senior Project
Artistic Element Guidelines
Create a three dimensional artistic project that correlates to your senior project. This means that a
poster is not sufficient enough for the artistic element. The options to fulfill this assignment is open
for interpretation. However, it must be directly related to your project without having to explain to the
audience how it applies. Please refer to the rubric for other requirements.
Excellent 4 Good 3 Basic 2 Poor 1
3D Design, Created an artwork that Created a three Created a piece of art Composition
Elements and was three dimensional dimensional piece of that was 2D. Some unplanned and
Principles using careful planning. art. Composition evidence of awareness disorganized.
Composition shows shows awareness of of and use of design Shows little or no
awareness of and use of and use of several principles in awareness of
design principles to design principles. composition. design principles.
achieve unified, balanced,
exciting, effective space.
Creativity, Original, unusual ideas, Some new ideas, One idea Finished
Originality related to maybe based on carried out assignment.
previous knowledge. someone elses adequately. No evidence
Outstanding problem work. Showed Perhaps used symbols of originality
solving. good, logical instead of or trying
solution. original thought. unusual ideas.
May be copied.
Craftsmanship Beautifully and Very well done. Some care for craft, but Careless,
/Skill patiently done. Lacks finishing also evidence impatient
All details and touches. of impatience work.
processes Some evidence of and carelessness.
carefully impatience.
considered.
Effort/ Project continued to Worked hard to Finished an easy Completed

Perseverance completion. complete the project project, was hurried and project with
Effort beyond but stopped short of anxious to be minimum
that required. creating done. Unable to effort.
Shows pride and outstanding see ambitious Anxious to
dedication to work. project to finish.
the work. completion.
Related to Relevant and gives insight Work of art relates but Work of art is hard to Work of art is not
Senior Project into senior capstone paper it takes some relate to senior topic applicable to senior
explanation to and requires detailed topic
understand it fully explanation of why it is
applicable.
Totals(20)
43

Falcon Ridge Senior Project

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Format for every typed assignment is as follows:

Senior Project Schedule

Pre-approval 2-3 days

Research Proposal 5-10 days

Outline of Paper 2-3 days

Senior Paper 5-14 days

Presentation 5-7 days

Artist Element 1-7 days

Format for every assignment is as follows:

Pre-Approval for Senior Project

Background and Purpose

the positive self esteem associated with staying in school.

Criteria 4 Exemplary 3 Accomplished 2 Developing 1 Beginning

Totals (24 pts)

The research log should include the following:

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Name of Article, Website, Etc.

Author: Website address:

Publisher (Magazine etc.) Date Published:

Indirect or Paraphrased Information

Note: Copies can be made per your request.

Criteria 4 Exemplary 3 Accomplished 2 Developing 1 Beginning

Total (28 pt)

Format for every assignment is as follows:

Directions for the Annotated Bibliography: