Short Paper Assignments

Theory of Knowledge

Prof. McCormick

During the semester you will be asked to write papers that are 2 or more pages in length summarizing, reconstructing, and/or evaluating the arguments given by the authors we are reading.  Here's what I will be looking for:

-These papers should conform to standards of college composition.  The Philosophy Department writing guidelines can be found at:  http://www.csus.edu/phil/req/writing.htm

-For the sake of brevity, introductions and conclusions on these papers can be very brief.

-Distill the authors most importants points and steps in the argument as clearly and succinctly as you can.  The biggest challenge will be figuring out what the points are and then deciding which are relevant and important for your summary. 

-A numbered premise and conclusion format like we often use in class is fine, but you will need to explain and elaborate on the premises and conclusion.  A simple numbered list of points will not be enough.

-Be sure to clearly state and explain the author's central thesis. 

-Be sure to cearly state and explain the central reasons that leads the author to the thesis.

-Papers should be typed, double spaced, and use a plain 12 point font. 

-Using outside sources is not necessary.  But you may use secondary resources like journal articles, books, or the Internet.  But if you incorporate any ideas from these sources in your paper, you must cite them and give appropriate credit.  Any plagiarism will be given an F for the assignment and warrant possible expulsion from the course (and the University!).