LitWiki - User contributions [en]

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:58:21Z

Mpatmon:

I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic at hand. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what an introduction, body, and conclusion should actually consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.

The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:57:18Z

Mpatmon:

I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic at hand. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should actually consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.

The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:56:42Z

Mpatmon:

I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic at hand. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.

The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:56:19Z

Mpatmon:

I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic assigned. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.

The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:55:10Z

Mpatmon:

I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic assigned. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.
The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:53:43Z

Mpatmon:

- I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic assigned. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.
- The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:53:14Z

Mpatmon:

# I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic assigned. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.
# The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

User:Mpatmon

2004-12-02T17:52:22Z

Mpatmon:

I believe that my writing skills have improved greatly. I have learned to take more time on essays, papers, and to really focus on the topic assigned. I have learned how to write papers correctly, such as: what a introduction, body, and conclusion should consist of as well as different types of essays and writing styles.
The most important accomplishment, this semester, is that I have learned to take my time and really explore my mind; to read an assignment pick up a pen and just let my mind run free for a while to see what I actually think or feel about what I am getting ready to write on.

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:43:39Z

Mpatmon:

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into six steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Outline/Organize Information
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

Evaluate gathered sources by checking it's authority, timeliness, reliability, scope, and it's credibility.

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

==Outline\Organize Information==

Take all paraphrased notes and gathered information and input it into an outline to ensure the organizational flow, tone, and the location of main points to hold the reader's interest.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stand out. This allows them to be spreaded evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:42:39Z

Mpatmon: /* Evaluating Sources */

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into six steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Outline/Organize Information
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

Evaluate gathered sources by checking it's authority, timeliness, reliability, credibility, and it's scope.

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

==Outline\Organize Information==

Take all paraphrased notes and gathered information and input it into an outline to ensure the organizational flow, tone, and the location of main points to hold the reader's interest.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stand out. This allows them to be spreaded evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:32:59Z

Mpatmon:

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into six steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Outline/Organize Information
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

==Outline\Organize Information==

Take all paraphrased notes and gathered information and input it into an outline to ensure the organizational flow, tone, and the location of main points to hold the reader's interest.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stand out. This allows them to be spreaded evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:32:14Z

Mpatmon:

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into six steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Outline/Organize Information
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

==Outlining\Organizing Information==

Take all paraphrased notes and gathered information and input it into an outline to ensure the organizational flow, tone, and the location of main points to hold the reader's interest.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stand out. This allows them to be spreaded evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:31:29Z

Mpatmon:

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into six steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Outlinig/Organizing Information
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

==Outlining\Organizing Information==

Take all paraphrased notes and gathered information and input it into an outline to ensure the organizational flow, tone, and the location of main points to hold the reader's interest.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stand out. This allows them to be spreaded evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:21:36Z

Mpatmon: /* Prewriting */

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into five steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stand out. This allows them to be spreaded evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-16T18:16:06Z

Mpatmon: /* Planning Your Research */

Basically, writing a research paper may be broken into five steps:

* Planning Your Research
* Finding Sources
* Evaluating Sources
* Using Sources without Plagiarizing
* Writing the Research Paper

== Planning Your Research ==

When writing a research paper, first find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it.

== Finding Sources ==

During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken.

== Evaluating Sources ==

== Using Sources without Plagiarizing ==

When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

== Writing the research Paper ==

=== Prewriting ===

An '''outline''' gives a writer a chance to organize the topic before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stick out. That allows you to spread them evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

=== Writing ===

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers.

=== Revision ===

Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. Be sure to proofread: check all punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]
[[Category:Composition|Research]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-11-11T18:39:55Z

Mpatmon:

When writing a research paper, first you should find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it. During this gathering of information, '''notes''' should be taken. When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input quotation marks for words copied exactly as you read them. All excerts from other sources must be cited. Also, any ideas taken from other sources must be cited.

By using an '''outline''', it gives a writer a chance to organize the topics and to see what exactly it consists of before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to improve the tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and, will make the main points stick out. That allows you to spread them evenly.

Next, you want to decide on a particular '''writing style''' for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the '''Modern Language Association''' writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the '''American Psychological Association''' published in 2001.

Now begin your paper. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good '''thesis''' is formed and the rest of the paper supports it. A good writer will use descriptive text to hold the attention of the readers. Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. If using Microsoft Word, be sure to check your paper with the spell check tool. Proofread your paper and it wouldn't hurt to allow a friend to proofread as well.

== Works Cited ==
* [http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml Research Guide]
* [http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]
* Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384
* [http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

----
[[Composition FAQ]]

What are “transitions”?

2004-11-11T18:34:28Z

Mpatmon:

Transitions are words or phrases that connect ideas from one unit of text to another. There provide clear, logical, steps from one point to the next. Before checking for proper transitions in an essay you should make sure the essay is well organized. This will help the essay seem coherent, concise and aid in its clarity. Transitions are used in sentences, paragraphs and large blocks of text. Between paragraphs the topic sentence of one paragraph should allude to the final sentence of the previous paragraph:

:: Presenting all sides of an event or topic will help keep the article close to the truth.
:: The only truth that exists in a society with government controlled media is that of the government.

Also, the topic sentence could allude to the topic sentence of the previous paragraph:

:: Consider aseptic packaging, the synthetic packaging for the “juice boxes” so many children bring to school with their lunch. (The rest of the paragraph is omitted)

:: What is true for juice boxes is also true for other forms of synthetic packaging. (Hacker 34)

Another method is for the final sentence of a paragraph to summarize the paragraph and suggest ideas in the next paragraph.
Within sentences, transitions are used to move from one part of the sentence to another. Some examples of these common words are:

:: and, also, besides, for example, but, however, in short, after, as, above, below, if, and so

These words are not only used to transition they are also used to show addition, give examples, compare, contrast, summarize, to show time, to show place or direction, and to indicate logical relationships.
If blocks of text are too long then a transitional paragraph maybe needed. A transitional paragraph summarizes the previous information as well as establish its relevence to the next section of information. A transitional paragraph provides a logical step from one part of a block of text to the next part:

:: Although the great apes have demonstrated significant language skills, one central question remains: Can they be
::taught to use that uniquely human language tool we call grammar, to learn the difference, for instance, between
::"ape bite human” and “human bite ape”? In other words, can an ape create a sentence? (Hacker 35)

Transitions allow the reader to continue reading at a steady pace. They prevent the reader from making unnecessary pauses after every five sentences.

== Works Cited ==

Faigley, Lester. "Signal relationships with Transitional Terms." The Brief Penguin Handbook. New York:
:Longman-Pearson Education, Inc. 2003: p. 48-49.

---. "Link Across Paragrpahs." The Brief Panguin Handbook. New York: Long-Pearson Education, Inc. 2003: p. 50-51

Hacker, Diana. "Providing Transitions." A Writer's Reference. 5th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's 2003: p. 33-35.

[http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/transitions.html "Writing Effective Transitions."] The Writing Center. 1998. UNC-CH Writing Center. 21 Oct. 2004.

----
[[Composition FAQ]]

What are “transitions”?

2004-11-11T18:29:09Z

Mpatmon:

A transition is a word or phrase that connect ideas from one unit of text to another. It provides clear, logical, steps from one point to the next. Before checking for proper transitions in an essay you should make sure the essay is well organized. This will help the essay seem coherent, concise and aid in its clarity. Transitions are used in sentences, paragraphs and large blocks of text. Between paragraphs the topic sentence of one paragraph should allude to the final sentence of the previous paragraph:

:: Presenting all sides of an event or topic will help keep the article close to the truth.
:: The only truth that exists in a society with government controlled media is that of the government.

Also, the topic sentence could allude to the topic sentence of the previous paragraph:

:: Consider aseptic packaging, the synthetic packaging for the “juice boxes” so many children bring to school with their lunch. (The rest of the paragraph is omitted)

:: What is true for juice boxes is also true for other forms of synthetic packaging. (Hacker 34)

Another method is for the final sentence of a paragraph to summarize the paragraph and suggest ideas in the next paragraph.
Within sentences, transitions are used to move from one part of the sentence to another. Some examples of these common words are:

:: and, also, besides, for example, but, however, in short, after, as, above, below, if, and so

These words are not only used to transition they are also used to show addition, give examples, compare, contrast, summarize, to show time, to show place or direction, and to indicate logical relationships.
If blocks of text are too long then a transitional paragraph maybe needed. A transitional paragraph summarizes the previous information as well as establish its relevence to the next section of information. A transitional paragraph provides a logical step from one part of a block of text to the next part:

:: Although the great apes have demonstrated significant language skills, one central question remains: Can they be
::taught to use that uniquely human language tool we call grammar, to learn the difference, for instance, between
::"ape bite human” and “human bite ape”? In other words, can an ape create a sentence? (Hacker 35)

Transitions help keep the reader reading at a steady pace. They prevent the reader from having to make unnecessary pauses after every five sentences.

== Works Cited ==

Faigley, Lester. "Signal relationships with Transitional Terms." The Brief Penguin Handbook. New York:
:Longman-Pearson Education, Inc. 2003: p. 48-49.

---. "Link Across Paragrpahs." The Brief Panguin Handbook. New York: Long-Pearson Education, Inc. 2003: p. 50-51

Hacker, Diana. "Providing Transitions." A Writer's Reference. 5th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's 2003: p. 33-35.

[http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/transitions.html "Writing Effective Transitions."] The Writing Center. 1998. UNC-CH Writing Center. 21 Oct. 2004.

----
[[Composition FAQ]]

What are “transitions”?

2004-10-28T17:29:50Z

Mpatmon:

A transition is a word or phrase that connectes the ideas from one unit of writing to the ideas of the next unit of writing. A transition provides clear, logical, steps from one point to another. Before trying to create proper transitions in an essay you should make sure the essay is well organized. Making sure each topic of a paragraph falls into a logical order. This will help the essay seem coherent and concise. The transitions will aid in the clarity of the essay but only if the paper is well organized. Transitions can be used in sentences, paragraphs or large blocks of text. Between paragraphs the topic sentence of one paragraph should allude to the final sentence of the previous paragraph:

:: Presenting all sides of an event or topic will help keep the article close to the truth.
:: The only truth that exists in a society with government controlled media is that of the government.

Also, the topic sentence could allude to the topic sentence of the previous paragraph:

:: Consider aseptic packaging, the synthetic packaging for the “juice boxes” so many children bring to school with their lunch. (The rest of the paragraph is omitted)

:: What is true for juice boxes is also true for other forms of synthetic packaging. (Hacker 34)

Another method is for the final sentence of a paragraph to summarize the paragraph and suggesting ideas in the next paragraph.
Within sentences, certain words are used to transition from one part of the sentence to another. Some examples of these common words are:

:: and, also, besides, for example, but, however, in short, after, as, above, below, if, and so

These words are not only used to transition they are also used to show addition, give examples, compare, contrast, summarize, to show time, to show place or direction, and to indicate logical relationships.
If blocks of text are too long then a transitional paragraph maybe needed. A transitional paragraph summarizes the previous information as well as establish its relevence to the next section of information. A transitional paragraph provides a logical step from one part of a block of text to the next part:

:: Although the great apes have demonstrated significant language skills, one central question remains: Can they be
::taught to use that uniquely human language tool we call grammar, to learn the difference, for instance, between
::"ape bite human” and “human bite ape”? In other words, can an ape create a sentence? (Hacker 35)

Transitions help keep the reader reading at a steady pace. They prevent the reader from having to make unnecessary pauses after every five sentences.

== Works Cited ==

Faigley, Lester. "Signal relationships with Transitional Terms." The Brief Penguin Handbook. New York:
:Longman-Pearson Education, Inc. 2003: p. 48-49.

---. "Link Across Paragrpahs." The Brief Panguin Handbook. New York: Long-Pearson Education, Inc. 2003: p. 50-51

Hacker, Diana. "Providing Transitions." A Writer's Reference. 5th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's 2003: p. 33-35.

[http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/transitions.html "Writing Effective Transitions."] The Writing Center. 1998. UNC-CH Writing Center. 21 Oct. 2004.

----
[[Composition FAQ]]

How do I go about doing a research paper?

2004-10-28T13:45:40Z

Mpatmon:

: When conducting a research, first you should find a suitable topic and begin gathering as much information as possible about it. According to the information found and the length requirements, the determination will be made on how broad the paper will be. During this gathering of information, notes should be taken. When taking notes, try to paraphrase as much as possible to prevent plagiarism. Remember to input qoutation marks for words copied exactly as you read them.

: By using an outline, it gives the writer a chance to organize their paper and to see what exactly the paper consists of before the actual writing begins. The writer will have the opportunity to shuffle different parts of the paper around to better its tone and flow. Outlining information before writing also exposes information not needed and will make the big points stick out. That allows you to spread them evenly.

: Next, you want to decide on a particular writing style for the paper. The most approved, by English and humanities instructors is the Modern Language Association writing style. The MLA style gives the writer certain guidelines to go by when writing their paper. It protects the writer from plagiarism by demanding more of the writers' work. Another well known writing style is the American Psychological Association published in 2001. As the body of the paper is being created, make sure that a good thesis is formed and the rest of the paper supports it.

: Now begin your paper. A good writer knows how to hold the attention of their readers. Include all quotations and all proper citations of works cited. If using Microsoft Word, be sure to check your paper with the spell and English grammar check tool. Proofread your paper and it wouldn't hurt to allow a friend to proofread as well.

----
'''Works Cited:'''

[http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml -Research Guide]

[http://dianahacker.com/writersref A Writer's Ref]

Hacker, Diana. "A Writer's Reference." 2003 MLA update pp.327-384

[http://www.aresearchguide.com/1steps.html Student Research Guide]

[[Composition FAQ]]

Composition FAQ

2004-10-28T13:45:21Z

Mpatmon: /* Research Questions */

Welcome to the English Composition Writing FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions). This FAQ addresses difficulties that many new writers have with mechanics, style, content, and structure. While meant for the neophyte writer, even experienced writers may benefit from some of the answers to the following questions.

Comments and questions should be forwarded to the FAQ’s Editor. If you have a question, feel free to send it to me, or link it below and hopefully someone will answer it in due time. Please check back frequently if your questions have not yet been answered. If you have a submission — an answer to a question — please include it below. Anyone wishing to submit content to the FAQ is strongly encouraged to do so. Any questions in red have not been answered; click on one to answer it.

== Initial Questions ==
* [[How do I get started writing?]]
* [[What questions do I need to ask as a writer?]]

== Content Questions ==
* [[How does a “topic” differ from a “subject”?]]
* [[What is a strong subject for an essay?]]
* [[What is meant by “purpose” in an essay?]]
* [[What is “audience”?]]
* [[What is a “thesis statement”?]]
* [[What is “interesting detail” and how do I use it?]]
* [[What is “development” or “support”?]]
* [[Where do I go for essay subject ideas?]]
* [[What is a strong title and how do I write one?]]
* [[Are there different types of essays?]]

== Mechanics and Grammar Questions ==
* [[What is a “comma splice”?]]
* [[What is a “run-on” sentence?]]
* [[What is a “sentence fragment”?]]
* [[How do I know when I need to use a comma?]]
* [[Is a comma really necessary after the last element in a list of three or more?]]
* [[How do you use a semicolon?]]
* [[What is “subject/verb agreement”?]]
* [[What is “pronoun/antecedent agreement”?]]
* [[What are “coordinating conjunctions”?]]
* [[What is the difference between possessives and plurals?]]

== Structural Questions ==
* [[What is a “thesis statement” and how do I write a strong one?]]
* [[What are some guidelines for writing a thesis?]]
* [[What is a “topic sentence”?]]
* [[How does an “opening sentence” differ from a “topic sentence”?]]
* [[How do I write a strong title?]]
* [[How do I write a strong introduction?]]
* [[What is the “body” of an essay?]]
* [[How do I write a strong conclusion?]]
* [[What is “unity”?]]
* [[What is “point of view”?]]
* [[How should an essay be organized?]]
* [[How do I get the ideas from my head to the paper?]]
* [[What are “transitions”?]]
* [[How do I present titles of other works in my essay?]]

== Stylistic Questions ==
* [[What is “tone”?]]
* [[What is wrong with “it”?]]
* [[Why is the pronoun “this” ambiguous?]]
* [[What is the “passive voice”?]]
* [[What is “word choice”?]]
* [[What is an “awkward sentence”?]]
* [[What is “redundancy”?]]
* [[What is “wordiness”?]]
* [[What is “hyperbole”?]]
* [[When is something “clichéd” or “trite”?]]
* [[How can my writing be more persuasive?]]

== Writing About Literature ==
* [[What tense do I use when writing about literature?]]
* [[How do I present titles of poems, novels, etc. in my essay?]]
* [[In what ways can I write about literature?]]
* [[How do I organize a critical essay about literature?]]
* [[What are some basic guidelines for approaching literature critically?]]

== Research Questions ==
* [[Research? What research!?]]
* [[How do I go about doing a research paper?]]
* [[What are good sources to cite?]]
* [[What is MLA documentation style?]]

== Revision and Editing ==
* [[How about some general writing tips?]]
* [[Editing? Proofreading? Revision?]]
* [[What are some basic editing strategies for new writers?]]

== External Links ==

* [http://writingcenter.gmu.edu/ Geroge Mason University’s Writing Center] — Some excellent resources for writers and ESL.
* [http://owl.english.purdue.edu/ Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab] — A great site for tutorials, workshops, study materials, and more.
* [http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/arts/writcent/ University of Ottawa’s Writing Centre] — Check out [http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/arts/writcent/hypergrammar/grammar.html Hypergrammar] and their other writing resources.

Composition FAQ

2004-10-28T13:44:09Z

Mpatmon: /* Research Questions */

Welcome to the English Composition Writing FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions). This FAQ addresses difficulties that many new writers have with mechanics, style, content, and structure. While meant for the neophyte writer, even experienced writers may benefit from some of the answers to the following questions.

Comments and questions should be forwarded to the FAQ’s Editor. If you have a question, feel free to send it to me, or link it below and hopefully someone will answer it in due time. Please check back frequently if your questions have not yet been answered. If you have a submission — an answer to a question — please include it below. Anyone wishing to submit content to the FAQ is strongly encouraged to do so. Any questions in red have not been answered; click on one to answer it.

== Initial Questions ==
* [[How do I get started writing?]]
* [[What questions do I need to ask as a writer?]]

== Content Questions ==
* [[How does a “topic” differ from a “subject”?]]
* [[What is a strong subject for an essay?]]
* [[What is meant by “purpose” in an essay?]]
* [[What is “audience”?]]
* [[What is a “thesis statement”?]]
* [[What is “interesting detail” and how do I use it?]]
* [[What is “development” or “support”?]]
* [[Where do I go for essay subject ideas?]]
* [[What is a strong title and how do I write one?]]
* [[Are there different types of essays?]]

== Mechanics and Grammar Questions ==
* [[What is a “comma splice”?]]
* [[What is a “run-on” sentence?]]
* [[What is a “sentence fragment”?]]
* [[How do I know when I need to use a comma?]]
* [[Is a comma really necessary after the last element in a list of three or more?]]
* [[How do you use a semicolon?]]
* [[What is “subject/verb agreement”?]]
* [[What is “pronoun/antecedent agreement”?]]
* [[What are “coordinating conjunctions”?]]
* [[What is the difference between possessives and plurals?]]

== Structural Questions ==
* [[What is a “thesis statement” and how do I write a strong one?]]
* [[What are some guidelines for writing a thesis?]]
* [[What is a “topic sentence”?]]
* [[How does an “opening sentence” differ from a “topic sentence”?]]
* [[How do I write a strong title?]]
* [[How do I write a strong introduction?]]
* [[What is the “body” of an essay?]]
* [[How do I write a strong conclusion?]]
* [[What is “unity”?]]
* [[What is “point of view”?]]
* [[How should an essay be organized?]]
* [[How do I get the ideas from my head to the paper?]]
* [[What are “transitions”?]]
* [[How do I present titles of other works in my essay?]]

== Stylistic Questions ==
* [[What is “tone”?]]
* [[What is wrong with “it”?]]
* [[Why is the pronoun “this” ambiguous?]]
* [[What is the “passive voice”?]]
* [[What is “word choice”?]]
* [[What is an “awkward sentence”?]]
* [[What is “redundancy”?]]
* [[What is “wordiness”?]]
* [[What is “hyperbole”?]]
* [[When is something “clichéd” or “trite”?]]
* [[How can my writing be more persuasive?]]

== Writing About Literature ==
* [[What tense do I use when writing about literature?]]
* [[How do I present titles of poems, novels, etc. in my essay?]]
* [[In what ways can I write about literature?]]
* [[How do I organize a critical essay about literature?]]
* [[What are some basic guidelines for approaching literature critically?]]

== Research Questions ==
* [[Research? What research!?]]
* [[How do I go about doing research?]]
* [[What are good sources to cite?]]
* [[What is MLA documentation style?]]

== Revision and Editing ==
* [[How about some general writing tips?]]
* [[Editing? Proofreading? Revision?]]
* [[What are some basic editing strategies for new writers?]]

== External Links ==

* [http://writingcenter.gmu.edu/ Geroge Mason University’s Writing Center] — Some excellent resources for writers and ESL.
* [http://owl.english.purdue.edu/ Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab] — A great site for tutorials, workshops, study materials, and more.
* [http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/arts/writcent/ University of Ottawa’s Writing Centre] — Check out [http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/arts/writcent/hypergrammar/grammar.html Hypergrammar] and their other writing resources.

Composition FAQ

2004-10-28T13:43:07Z

Mpatmon: /* Research Questions */

User talk:Mpatmon

2004-10-20T17:45:23Z

Mpatmon:

Plurals, possesives, thesis statements, and focus points can all become problems to a young writer without the proper research. Knowing and getting a concept of what these are before the writing process can save alot of time and reduce the amount of red marks on a paper. The apostrophe is optional when using plurals but the possesives have to be specified as just that.
The thesis statement is a single sentence of the central or main idea of a paper. Know this, how to form a thesis, what it takes to support it, and how to incorporate it into your paper.
When writing a paper you should stay focused on the title and not venture far from it. The ability to stay around the subject comes from careful planning with outlines, proofreading and rough drafts. Research your subject so that you will know it first hand which will give you the ability to let your paper flow instead of state facts and jump from point to point.

Example of thesis statement:
'''Title:'''Unix: The Premier Operating System
'''Thesis:'''Unixs' proven track record of being stable, its' performance, portability, and how it addresses security issues proves in more ways than one that it is the premier operating system.

Example of plurals and possesives:
'''Plural:'''The United States has many enemies.
'''Possesive:'''The United States' government is apprehending offenders of terrorist crimes at an alarming rate.

'''Sources:'''
Diana Hacker."A Writer's Reference." Fifth edition. www.dianahacker.com/writersref

Macon State Collete Online Writing Lab
http://media.maconstate.edu/owl/home.asp

http://www.hut.fi/~rvilmi/help/grammar_help/