Our Inquiry-based Research Essay develops a topic, a central research question, and states a controlling purpose (what we will do in our essay). Our goal is to is to grow knowledge, shed insight and provide perspective on our question. This is not a binary, yes/no, right/wrong, up/down/ black/white essay or report that leads to a single answer. We are entering a conversation about an on-going issue; we are part of that conversation and want to add to that conversation, keeping the conversation going. We are participants, not observers, so our voices need to be heard as well. To accomplish this goal our paper should Focus on ideas, not just information Avoid claims; we are inquiring, and inquiry begins with questions Follow the BEAM model for using sources B=background; E=example; A=argument; M=method, or critical lens, or theory We want to place sources in conversation with one another, not just report what they say; there could be 2-3 sources in one paragraph The essay should be between 4-7 pages, with intext citations of sources Contain a works cited page The complete rough draft is due before your next conference The final draft is due Tuesday, May 12 TRY TO AVOID MAKING ANY CLAIMS that’s what he yelled at me about in the rough draft.