Length: 350 – 500 words (approx. 2 pages). [NOTE: The maximum allowable words is 600 words and
if you exceed that limit, that portion will not be marked]
Papers must be double-spaced with 12 point Times New Roman or Arial Font and 1 inch margins,
following APA style.
Submission: Each thought paper must be submitted via BrightSpace (please be sure to include your
name in the file name as well as on the actual document – see course syllabus about naming
conventions for assignments).
A thought paper is a brief paper that allows you to explore your own thoughts, ideas, and insights
regarding a particular topic discussed in class in a less formal way than a short essay (see below, 2nd
page for though paper questions). The thought papers should convey your original thoughts in
relation to the question, not be a summary of class discussion/lectures or readings. You need to
make a connection with a topic(s) discussed in class and thoughtfully reflect and apply what you have
learned in class. There is no right or wrong answer – but make sure you answer the question! All
thought papers should be well conceived, well structured, well written, and should illustrate your
critical thinking in response to the questions. To note, while you can reference articles as relevant it
this is not required.
YOU WILL BE MARKED SPECIFICALLY ON THE FOLLOWING:
Content
1. Showed comprehension of question and/or article(s)
2. Showed analytical thinking/writing skills
3. Answered question fully
4. Info presented clearly linked to class content
Organization
1. Information presented in a logical/organized order
2. Clear transition between sections
3. Easy to follow flow of the ideas
4. Clear beginning and end to each section
Thought, effort