Prose Model
Description
From our readings thus far, we have learned the importance of including specific sections (such as the abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion, conclusion, and references) in scientific papers. On page three of our textbook, Katz reminds us that “the predictable form of a scientific paper, with its standard set of sections arranged in a stereotyped order, ensures that a reader knows what to expect and where to find specific types of information” [1]. For this forum, you will select an article to read and then answer the questions below in your initial post. Your reading choices are listed under Lessons (Week 3, “Lesson”…scroll down to “Prose Model” and “Reading Choices.”) The articles listed demonstrate the above-mentioned organizational method. Answer the following questions in complete sentences, and do not copy and paste the questions or instructions into your post. Refer to the Forum Guidance note (click on “View Full Description” in the white box above) for word count and due date requirements. Which article did you select? Briefly summarize the article. What is the article about? Is the language complicated or easy to understand, in your opinion? Which sections (i.e., abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion, conclusion, and references) does the article contain? Pick ONE section (such as materials and methods) and describe it in detail. Please include quotes from this section of your article. How effective is this particular section? What is good about it? Is there anything bad or ineffective about it? How well is your chosen article organized? Does this article uphold Katz’s theory about the importance of the standard scientific format? (See quote above.) Does your article demonstrate other key aspects of scientific writing that we have learned thus far (such as concise writing, active voice, numbers, visuals, etc.)? Provide examples. For your two student replies, respond to classmates who have chosen different articles. Check out their articles and see if you can help them identify sections, answer some of the above questions, or further the discussion about their selections. Feel free to ask questions or provide additional insight for your classmates to consider. Reference 1. Katz, Michael J. 2009. From Research to Manuscript, A Guide to Scientific Writing. Cleveland, Ohio: Springer 205 p. The grading rubric for this forum is attached below.
