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The basic task is to write a profile for the Chicago Tribune (or another publication) on crime in the United States. You can choose your specific topic based on the data files below.
Organization: 2-3 written pages not including the graphs. Graphs should be incorporated into the body of the text (not grouped together at the end) and numbered (for example figure 1, figure 2, etc…). Attempt to write in a style appropriate for your audience. The paper should include: a well-written introduction and conclusion. at least one trendline graph with a 1-2 sentence caption. Don’t forget to cite the source and include the table number. a clear discussion of the data making particular references to the graphs. How to talk about the graphs: Think about the various activities you have done in class that have had you practice describing graphs (geographic trends, your faith in a trendline prediction, pie and bar/column graphs). This is your chance to put this knowledge to good and original use. Focus on what is interesting about the graphs, but don’t exhaustively describe them. The graphs will do some of that work for you. You are the expert that will draw the reader’s attention to what is interesting or important about a particular graph. CrimeInTheUnitedStates1991through2012.xls (Table 1) CrimeInTheUnitedStatesByCommunityType2012.xls (Table 2) CrimeInTheUnitedStatesByState2012.xls (Table 5) CrimeInTheUnitedStatesByRegion2012.xls (Table 3) You may look up additional tables using this link but it isn’t required. Please make sure to reference the table that you used as part of the source. http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/ucr/crime-in-the-u.s/2012/crime-in-the-u.s.-2012/tables Your grade will be based on the following: 1. Mechanics (30 points) 2-3 pages in length, excluding charts/graphs and maps grammar and spelling references included at the end of the paper introduction – what is my paper about? conclusion – tie it all together overall paper presentation 2. Trendline graph with prediction and written justification (20 points) “effective” graph – use the guidelines we learned in class meaningful caption including the incorporation of percentage, rates, etc… when applicable written explanation provides at least two convincing justifications (use language we learned in class) for the prediction the graph is numbered (for example “figure 1”) at least 3 graphs/maps in addition to the trendline graph choice of graph/map appropriate for the data create “effective” graphs – use the guidelines we learned in class meaningful captions including the incorporation of percentage, rates, etc… when applicable graphs are referenced within the paper to support statements source must be included on or below the graph – don’t forget to also include the Table number as part of the source each graph is numbered (for example “figure 1”) shows an understanding of concepts learned in class 5. Chicago Connection (20 points) find an article and discuss crime in Chicago (or Illinois), within the last 2 years (2012 or later). cite the source – If it is from a website, please provide the link. If it is from a paper source, please provide a copy of the article if possible (scanned pdf file). compare the information to what has is happening in the entire U.S based on your research. It is ok that you are comparing different years. |
