Research Report
In science, it is important to familiarize yourself with the major sources of information available. Primary references are one of the principle ways in which scientists publish their findings. Scientific journals are peer evaluated, and contain the most current research in a particular field. A journal article includes a statement of the problem (hypothesis), a description of the experiment or study performed (materials and methods), the data obtained (results), the conclusions reached (discussion), and the importance or implications of the research.
For this assignment, you will select a journal article related to your chosen topic from current scientific journals and explain the information presented in the research. You may choose any topic that is physiology related.
You should read the journal article, and through paraphrasing and definitions/information from other sources, describe what the researchers are reporting. I am familiar with how students write, so please do not plagiarize the authors of the articles. Work on paraphrasing the material and give appropriate citations. More citations is better than fewer.
Each report should include: (To receive 50 points)
1. One journal article from a primary reference journal related to your chosen topic. The article should be at least three pages in length and as current as possible. Articles and topics can easily be found using pubmed.
2. A minimum of 3 references (1 being the primary reference article) properly cited in your report. Only 1 of the 3 can be from a textbook.
3. At least three pages (which would start at a C grade) of typewritten text, integrating and summarizing the information on the topic from the selected reference.
All papers should be typed, double spaced, 12 font, 1-inch margins, page numbers, and free of grammatical and spelling errors.
4. Use of appropriate biology research format for in-text citations and include a works cited page at the end of the report with the precise citation of the journal, book, or web reference. MLA is an appropriate format for biology writing; however you may use another style if it is easier for you. Please utilize the writing center for assistance.
An example of a works cited reference:
Tsukimura, B., and Kamemoto, F.I. (1991). In vitro stimulation of oocytes by
presumptive mandibular organ secretions in the shrimp, Panaeus vannamei.
Aquaculture 92, 59-66.
– see example papers for appropriate citations and organization-
5. An introduction of the research topic.
6. A summary of the hypothesis, methods, research findings/results, and conclusions the researchers came up with from your selected primary article; and whether or not they supported the initial hypothesis.
7. Be sure to use other references to explain difficult material found in the research paper.
8. Some comments as to the merits of the research, its relevance, and how it might change our current understanding of physiology.
9. The order in which you present material in your paper is up to you, as long as you include the above mentioned areas in your paper.
10. No plagiarizing, you need to learn to paraphrase and therefore be cautious about taking direct quotes from the source materials! Paraphrased material still needs to be cited in the paper. Plagiarized papers = 0
11. Don’t forget your works cited page.
Check with the instructor if you have any questions about the journal article chosen or the directions.
Late Papers will receive a 10% reduction for each day late! (Please turn it in early so that you don’t lose out on any points)
Remember: utilize Pubmed for a wealth of scientific publications.