This research argumentative paper should conform to the updated MLA style. In the upper left hand corner, students should list their name, the course, the professor’s name, and the date. The student’s last name and page number should be included in the upper right hand corner of every page. Also, in accordance with the MLA style, each paper that uses secondary sources should include a Works Cited page listing all relevant material. I prefer one-inch margins, with a 12 pt. font (Times New Roman). Note: I do not accept papers that do not conform to the MLA style. Turning in a paper without a Works Cited page, for example, will receive no grade (a student can’t pass the course unless all work is submitted properly and graded).
Explore the use of horror, fantasy, or science fiction in contemporary society. Throughout the semester, we are reading these types of novels in chronological order in an attempt to explore the development of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. For the research paper, I would like you to consider a contemporary perspective. You might discuss the progression of Star Trek or compare the prequels from Star Wars, for instance. You might write a theoretical examination of syfy network (how have we arrived at a point where sci-fi is so common as to have its own slang?). You might compare a film adaptation of a story to demonstrate how/why the film director changes or reinterprets details from a story. These are but a couple of ideas. As with any paper, you should include quotations and other relevant details from the text(s) you are discussing. The paper must also come with a Works Cited page that cites the piece(s) (since you will be quoting) as well as two additional secondary sources that help to support your argument. Be sure that you have created a thesis statement, and use topic sentences to focus your paper throughout. Do not use first or second person in your paper.
