SCI 105 - Spring 1998 - Assignment for Midterm Paper
So far in this course, we have examined a general model of science as described in Ziman and (I hope) exemplified by our classwork. In The Double Helix, we had an extended example of science done in the real world. You mid-term paper will examine The Double Helix in light of our more general discussion of science.
Is The Double Helix a good example of our general model of science? Is it "typical science"? For example, does it contain examples of Ziman’s ideas. Alternatively, does Double-Helix science differ significantly from our general model? If so, specifically how? Are the "scientific methods" of Watson, Crick, Bragg, Pauling, Wilkins, Franklin all basically the same? Does a person’s personality affect the way he/she practices the discipline? If so, specifically how is this shown by these people?
Your paper should argue for your particular interpretation of the book, and not merely string material together as a vague sort of book report. [It should be clear from near the beginning what your particular interpretation is.] You should use specific examples from the texts to support your ideas. Where they are relevant, incorporate opinions from the reviews we discussed in class whether or not they agree with you. You may, of course, include reviews that were not assigned reading.
The paper should contain your own thoughts in your own words; extensive paraphrasing from our sources is not acceptable. Quotations should be used sparingly. All materials drawn from your sources should be used to further the argument your paper is making, and not be gratuitous digressions. You do not need to do additional library research. Instead, spend your time thinking about what you have read and organizing your thoughts into a coherent paper. If you have difficulty in developing your ideas, you can contact me via e-mail or call me at my office. I will not read my e-mail over the weekend.
The paper should be about 5-6 pages in length. It should be printed dark black in 10 or 12 point type, double spaced with one inch margins all around. You should carefully edit your work for grammar, style and organization of ideas. Poorly-written papers will receive low grades. You should be clear about attributing ideas to their sources where they are not your own. Use the following styles:
Completed papers are due in my hands at 9:01 AM on March 6. Papers turned in late (10 minutes or 10 hours) will be penalized for lateness at the rate of 10% per day or fraction thereof. Leave yourself time to solve last minute computer failures and printer problems. Back yourself up often as you work to avoid frustrating and unnecessary duplication of effort. I will be emotionally sympathetic to such difficulties, but will penalize you nonetheless if they cause your work to be late.