Geology in the News - Assignment

Introduction

Applying knowledge to understand the world around you is an important aspect of learning.  This assignment is intended to direct your focus on events and topics in the news concerning earth science, and to show your understanding of the processes involved. You many have to research beyond the information presented in the articles.

Due Date

Due No later than April 18. However, I suggest you turn it by March 28.   A paper turned in and graded early can be rewritten for a better grade.  However, all comments must be addressed and the original paper must be submitted as a word document through myWebCourses.  I retain the right not to regrade papers if the rewrite is superficial and does not address suggested changes.  Do not wait until the last week to complete the assignment. I will deduct 5 points from any paper turned in late regardless of the excuse.   If you struggle with writing I suggest you take advantage of the Writing Skills Center (MH223).  Bring a copy of this assignment when you go.

Directions

Step 1: Choose two geologic events or topics reported in the news between Sept 1 2007 and April 21 2008.

Step 2: Find articles

a. Collect and read a minimum of 3 articles about each event from a range of sources.   These 3 articles must be current (fall within the time period given in step 1).  Auxiliary information required to understand your topic is not considered an article.  However, such information will be considered in calculating your grade and should be referenced and linked. You will be graded on your choice of articles. They should be more than a brief newswire announcement. The same news feed repeated on different news sources do not count and separate articles.

b. Remember to record the source, date, author, and active link (when appropriate)  in the bibliography. (See below.)

Step 3. Read and Discuss.

Read the articles several times before attempting to write your discussion.  Address the following in your discussion.

a. Describe the event and discuss the underlying causes.
b. Discuss how is the event relates to geology if not immediately obvious.
c. Describe and discuss the socioeconomic ramifications of the event.
d. Discuss any controversy or lessons learned from the event.

Warnings:
1. Do not quote sections or paraphrase text from articles unless for emphasis. Such phrases much be referenced.  Quoting and paraphrasing is commonly an indication that you haven't taken the time to fully understand the material.  Read your articles several times until you feel comfortable with the content, then write. 
2. An F will be given to anyone found copying material from an unreferenced source. 
3. Don't include articles you haven't read. If you include an article and it's clear you didn't read it 5 points will be deducted from the grade for that topic.  I read your articles and your papers very carefully.
4. An automatic zero will be given if any text is found to be copied directly from the Internet and not included in the bibliography. 
5. If your prose is deemed unreadable then your paper will be returned without a grade for rewriting. You must take it to the Writing Skills Center before resubmitting it.
6. Outdated articles can be used only for auxiliary content only. 

Step 4: Organize

General Format: Organize your two discussion essays into a single word document. In the upper left hand corner place your name, GLS100 geonews, and the date, each on a separate line.  Each news essay must have a title header at the beginning an a bibliography at the end. Each discussion must be typed with the following type and format: Times Roman or similar font @ 12 pts, 1 inch margins. Spacing must be 1x or 1.5x. Check spelling and paragraph structure. Each paragraph must have a topic sentence introducing the content of the paragraph. 

Length of each discussion should be no less than 1.5 pages (@1.5x spacing) and no more than 4 pages. Content, structure, and understanding is more important than length.

Bibliography: Include all articles and auxiliary documents used. See syllabus for format.  Include an active link to any material retrieved from the Internet.

General guidelines referencing formats
Online Stand-alone document with no author or date given

document name, (n.d.). date retrieved, from site page url.
Online Articles

Author(s), date of publication if available, title, date retrieved, site URL.
Periodical

Author(s), date of publication, title, journal, volume, pages.
Book

Author(s), date of publication, title, edition, publisher, location, pages.

Step 5: Submit. Submit as a word document attached to the assignment dropoff box in myWebCourses GLS100 website.   If you used NeoOffice, or similar freeware, resave the file as a word.doc or rtf file before sending it. 

Trouble Shooting

1. If you have problems understanding a topic see me for help and direction.   Again, the sooner you start your project the less this will become a problem.

2. If you have problems with grammar, sentence structure, and paragraph organization make an appointment with the Writing Skills Center.  The center is a great asset and many benefit from its services.   However, don't assume that they are all knowing and can organize the paper for you.

Location: Meier Hall 220, North Campus
Phone: 978-542-6491

3. If you can't attach your paper make sure Java and popup windows are activated in your browser.

4. If this doesn't work call the helplines listed below. Assume you will have a problem and plan to submit early in case you do.

Days 8:30am - 5:00pm Call the SSC I.T. Helpdesk 978-542-2036
Evenings 5:00pm - 8:30am Call 1-800-569-6505

 

 

Finding articles

1. Google search NEWS (search by keyword or topic)

2. Try the following websites

Planet Ark
ScienceDev Net
Scientific American
Science Friday
ScienceTech Daily
Science News
TerraDaily World Science

Grading Rubric

Each article will be graded with the following > rubric