Assignment: Research Paper

You might explore endangered or threatened species

Here are the topics for your upcoming research paper:

1. In a 2001 speech, then United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan warned that "competition for fresh water may well become a source of conflict and wars in the future." Others, including environmentalists and economists, have also warned of impending “water wars.” Still, others disagree, calling the prospect of future water conflicts both alarmist and fabricated. Should this be a legitimate concern? Will future wars indeed be fought over water? Investigate the issues surrounding the potential water wars.
2. The ocean is not often given its due as a source of scientific innovations, but from renewable energy technology to everyday applications for deep space exploration, it has provided us with a steady supply of discoveries. Conduct an in-depth analysis of three current ocean-based projects that hold the potential for great scientific progress.
3. While efforts to combat climate change are at an all-time high, so too is climate change skepticism, even fatigue. Scientists tell us we are quickly approaching the point of no return, but will the world get behind serious efforts to combat it, or will other factors, such as economics, derail the fight? How is the future fight against climate change taking shape in America and abroad? Who is leading the charge for new climate change standards—and who is leading the charge against those standards? 
4. In recent years, the lucrative dolphin trade has come under scrutiny. Centered in Japan, but with centers worldwide, it is a multi-million-dollar-a-year venture. However, it has also come at a great cost to dolphin populations around the world. Animal rights activists have also highlighted the participation of American marine mammal parks, including SeaWorld. Who wins and who loses in this venture? Examine the dolphin trade to uncover the details of this lucrative business.
5. From turtles to jellyfish to whales, all over the world, many ocean species face an uphill battle for survival. Profile three threatened or endangered aquatic species, including their chances of both survival and extinction. In your analysis, consider those common factors that might bring these three species to the point of extinction. 
6. Write your own sea-based prompt. Use the above prompts as models. Email me your topic by Sunday, Sept. 10th at midnight.

Requirements:

• A minimum 10 pages in length
• MLA Style, including parenthetical citation
• A minimum of 6 outside sources—at least 3 from peer-reviewed academic texts—listed in a separate Works Cited page

Include in your research paper:

• A clear thesis to guide your examination
• An in-depth analysis of your subject matter
• A conclusion that illustrates an understanding of the subject matter