Final Project

Final Project Guideline
Term Paper, 4-6 pages for 319 students, 8-12 pages for 519 students (double-spaced, 1-inch
margins, 12-point, Times New Roman, MLA format, and footnotes preferred), due on May 11
(30%), Peer Review (5%) and Presentation (5%)
Your term paper should be a close reading (at least one direct quote and analysis of its significance)
of a work of contemporary (1976-present) Chinese literature, a discussion of a literary phenomenon,
a comparison of the original literary work and its filmic adaptation or 2-3 literary works, or a critical
analysis of an issue that can be supported by using examples from contemporary Chinese fiction
and/or film. At least 2 (for 319) and 4 (for 519) secondary sources should be cited.
Your paper must have a thesis statement summarizing your topic, your central argument and its
significance, which is normally the opening paragraph of the essay. It is important that you do a
close reading of the text you choose to analyze in your paper. DO NOT just repeat or summarize
lecture notes and readings. Instead, present textual evidence that support your argument. Pay close
attention to academic style and document your sources carefully.
All papers must be handed in as hard copies to the instructor’s mailbox in EALC/French mail room
(Wescoe 2103, which normally closes at 5pm). No late submission will be accepted!
Each student is expected to give a 10-minute presentation about the progress of your final project:
Part I: Your thesis: 1-2 paragraphs answering the following questions: What’s your topic? What’s
your central question? How would you address the question? What is your hypothesis, or the main
point that you want to prove? What evidence that you plan to use to support your argument?
Part II: Progress of your research: What sources you intend to use and how?
Part III: Any possible post-presentation research?
Q & A session: Respond to audiences’ questions and comments. —- 1-2 minutes
There is NO make-up presentation!
Grading criteria:
a) Content (critical analysis, quality of argument, and originality) 40%
b) Organization (logical coherence and development of argument) 40%
c) Mechanics (grammar, spelling, citation, and format) 20%
* The best presentation (decided by class voting) will get extra credit.
* Consult our course guide for proper citation and useful references:
http://guides.lib.ku.edu/c.php?g=95233