Instructions: Pick a public policy from the list below and in 3-5 (2-4 for CP) pages discuss the current public policies and decisions that have been made and are being discussed right now and how you would improve upon this policy. This paper WILL require Research, and I am expecting you to use at least three onlines sources (DO NOT USE WIKI) One Para defining Current Status, One Para Explaining what you would do, and one para explaining how your changes would improve upon the system Purpose: Research and Argumentation Be sure to talk about who these policies affect, who would benefit from them, who would pay for them, etc Due Dates: B Day Periods 3 and 4 - Due 10/7/2024 via EMAIL at 11:59pm. All Late papers will be deducted at 10% late penalty per day (Late penalties cannot be overridden by resubmission)
A Day Periods 1 and 3 and B Day Period 1 - Due 10/18/2024 via EMAIL at 11:59pm. All Late papers will be deducted at 10% late penalty per day (Late penalties cannot be overridden by resubmission) Topic List: Environmental Policy Immigration Policy Education Policy Welfare Public Policy Energy Public Policy
Rubric:
Category Score → Excellent (4) Good (3) Fair (2) Poor (1) Defining the Public Policy (20%)
Clearly defines the public policy with comprehensive context and detail. Defines the public policy with adequate context and some detail. Partially defines the public policy but lacks clarity or detail. Fails to define the public policy or is unclear and vague. Proposing an Alternative Policy (20%)
Proposes a well-thought-out alternative with clear rationale, motivation, and policy changes. Proposes a reasonable alternative but lacks full rationale, motivation, or policy changes.
Proposes an alternative that is vague or underdeveloped.
Fails to propose an alternative or lacks relevance.
Arguing on Behalf of Your Alternative (20%)
Provides compelling arguments supporting the alternative, backed by strong evidence. Provides reasonable arguments with some supporting evidence Arguments are weak or lack supporting evidence. Fails to argue in favor of the alternative effectively. Grammar and Spelling (10%)
No grammatical or spelling errors
Few minor grammatical or spelling errors. Several grammatical or spelling errors that distract from content. Frequent grammatical and spelling errors that hinder understanding.
Use of In-Text Citations (10%)
Consistently uses correct APA in-text citations that enhance credibility. Uses in-text APA citations with minor errors or inconsistencies. Inconsistent or improper use of in-text citations. Fails to use in-text citations or uses them incorrectly Use of Research (10%)
Integrates research effectively (Minimum number of sources met) and supports arguments throughout the paper. Uses research adequately (Minimum Number of required Sources) but may lack integration or relevance in places. Minimal use of research (Does not meet required source minimum); lacks integration with arguments. Fails to incorporate relevant research or relies on personal opinion. Bibliography (10%)
Comprehensive bibliography in correct APA format; includes all necessary sources. Good bibliography with minor APA formatting errors; most sources included Incomplete bibliography; several APA formatting errors; some sources missing. Incomplete or missing bibliography; significant APA formatting errors.
To help you get started on your paper, let's break down the process into manageable steps. Here's a guide on how to approach writing about a public policy, using the example of Environmental Policy:
Research Current Policies: Look into the current environmental policies in place. This could include national policies like the Clean Air Act, international agreements like the Paris Agreement, or recent legislative efforts aimed at addressing climate change.
Identify Key Issues: Determine the main issues these policies aim to address, such as reducing carbon emissions, protecting natural resources, or promoting renewable energy.
Affect and Impact: Consider who these policies affect. For instance, industries may face regulations, while communities might benefit from cleaner air and water.
Sources: Use credible sources such as government websites, academic journals, and reputable news outlets to gather information. Avoid using Wikipedia.
Identify Gaps: Based on your research, identify any gaps or shortcomings in the current policies. This could be insufficient funding, lack of enforcement, or outdated regulations.
Develop Your Proposal: Propose a well-thought-out alternative policy. For example, you might suggest a carbon tax to incentivize reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Rationale and Motivation: Clearly explain why this alternative is necessary and how it addresses the gaps you've identified.
Provide Evidence: Use data and examples to support your proposal. This could include case studies from other countries where similar policies have been successful.
Benefits: Discuss who would benefit from your proposed changes. For instance, a carbon tax might lead to cleaner air, benefiting public health.
Cost and Funding: Consider who would pay for the policy changes. Would it be funded by taxpayers, or would industries bear the cost?
Structure: Organize your paper into clear sections: Introduction, Current Status, Proposed Policy, Argumentation, and Conclusion.
Citations: Use APA format for in-text citations and your bibliography. Ensure all sources are properly cited to enhance credibility.
Proofreading: Check for grammatical and spelling errors. A well-written paper will score higher in the grammar and spelling category.
Review the Rubric: Ensure your paper meets all the criteria outlined in the rubric, from defining the policy to using research effectively.
Submit on Time: Be mindful of the due date for your class period and submit your paper via email before the deadline to avoid late penalties.
By following these steps, you'll be able to craft a comprehensive and well-argued paper on environmental policy or any other public policy topic from the list. Good luck!