Purpose: The purpose of this assignment is to give students the opportunity to research and ethically analyse an important issue or topic in contemporary health care and to further refine research, evaluation, argumentation and writing skills.
Assignment: Select from the list of topics posted at the bottom of this document. Please contact me if you wish to write on a variation of one of the themes. The paper should present a sustained argument defending your considered and informed opinion on the topic or issue. Format: The paper will be 8 to 10 pages (not including bibliography and title page), double spaced with 1” margins and 12pt font (Times New Roman). It must include at least 5 references from relevant peer-reviewed journals other than those assigned as class readings. You are encouraged to reference relevant course readings in addition to this. Remember to follow a reference format such as APA. I am not overly concerned about which format, but you need to be consistent. Evaluation: I will be looking for a clear and concise analysis of the topic and a well supported argument for your position. The paper will be judged on the basis of; • demonstrated knowledge of course material including moral theory, relevant theoretical perspectives and research related to the paper topic • ability to analyse the issues and synthesize a position • strength of argument, justification and explanation • ability to anticipate and overcome major objections to your position • originality of thought • overall impression (i.e., clarity of expression, grammar, spelling, sentence structure and style). Evaluating a written work is a holistic process that cannot be reduced to a simple checklist. The following rubric is meant as a guide to the evaluation process. (Note: I have adapted the below from a previous course instructor.)
