Current Issue Paper (CIP)

Please read this guide to writing the CIP.

You will have already identified a topic and approach in the ‘proposal’ submitted previously.

Description

The CIP will allow you to focus on a current issue in the region (East & SE Asia). The CIP will help
you to develop your writing skills and your approach to research.

Apart from the academic benefit, it is my belief that this should be an enjoyable process. I suggest
that you try to focus on an issue that you personally find interesting.

Length

The CIP should be around 1,500 words in length (Plus or minus 10% is acceptable).

Structure

Make sure your CIP has an introduction, body and conclusion. You should have a heading for the
introduction, headings in the body of the paper to delineate specific sections, and a heading for the
conclusion. Along with the main headings, you may use sub-headings. However, do not use them to
the point where it is distracting for the reader. The whole point of a having a clear structure and
headings is to assist the reader.

If you have not written an academic essay before, it may be a good idea to look at some academic
journal articles or book chapters. This might clarify for you how headings can be effectively used.

Referencing

You should reference the CIP using the Harvard referencing system. You will find a very useful
interactive referencing tool on the GU library site.

You will have in-text references along with a reference list at the end of the paper

Sources

Of course, you will consult textbooks and/or journals for background information. However, given
that you are going to focus on a current issue, you will need to consult a variety of news sources.
When using the internet, you need to make sure that these sources are reliable. For example, sources
such as The People’s Daily Online, BBC etc are fine. However, someone’s blog/opinion is not a
credible source. Do not use Wikipedia or similar sites as references/sources

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In summary

I reiterate that you should try to choose a relevant issue that you find interesting. By doing so, I hope
that you should find the process enjoyable. Remember that the scope of what is considered relevant is
quite liberal. However, if you are in any doubt that your topic is suitable, do not hesitate to contact
me. My reply may be brief and to the point, but I am a happy to clarify it for you. In summary, the
CIP needs to:

 Focus on a relevant current issue

 Have a clear argument

 Have a clear structure and headings

 Provide any necessary background

 Have a clear conclusion

 Keep to the word limit (i.e. plus or minus 10%)

Presentation
Margins of about 2.5cm (left, right, and from top and bottom of page)

Use 12 font

Use 1.5 or double line spacing.

Use page numbers

Title page
Should include:

Topic

Word Count

Your name and student number

Course name and code