Academic Writing vs Encyclopedic Writing - Evaluating Sources
This is the content for Academic Writing vs Encyclopedic Writing - Evaluating Sources, scheduled for 10-14.
These slides gives some guidelines for acedmic writing in general, with more detail on selecting and citing good sources.
Assignment: Academic Paper
Write a short academic paper (4-8 pages + references) on a sustainability-related topic (preferably local). This complements your Wikipedia assignment by practicing academic voice, structure, and argumentation.
Learning Goals
- Write for an academic audience with clear structure and argument.
- Critically evaluate and integrate scholarly, policy, and NGO sources.
- Develop a sustained argument (not just description).
- Practice ethical scholarship: attribution, citation consistency, transparency.
- Engage with local/global sustainability questions.
Instructions
- Choose a topic. Prefer local relevance (Olomouc / Moravia / Czechia). Pick from the seed list below or propose your own.
- Research. Use at least 5 reliable sources, including 2+ scholarly/peer-reviewed. Policy/NGO/government reports are welcome. Contact local experts if necessary.
- Write ~4 pages (double-spaced, excluding references) with:
- Title & Abstract (150–200 words)
- Introduction (topic, research question/thesis)
- Body (evidence, analysis, argument)
- Conclusion (findings, implications)
- References (APA, Chicago, or MLA; be consistent)
- Submit Draft for peer review (Week 7).
- Revise and submit final paper (Week 8).
Suggested Seed Topics
- Why is metal recycling in Olomouc only in a
few specialised bins, instead of with plastic (like in Spain)?
Timeline
- Week 3: Topic selection — choose a topic; optional 3–5 source mini-bibliography.
- Week 5: Annotated bibliography — short notes on 5+ sources — at least 2–3 sentences justification for each
- Week 7: Draft due — bring a complete draft for in-class peer review.
- Final: submit revised paper formatted appropriately.
Tips for Success
- Lead with a clear research question and answer it.
- Use topic sentences and signposting for flow.
- Support every claim with citations (even when paraphrasing).
- Write in a formal academic style; avoid slang and vague phrasing.
- Check originality and citation consistency before submitting.