English 497 Assignment 2

Write a short proposal (6-8 pages, double-spaced) outlining a scientific or technical problem that you propose to solve. The solution to the problem may involve basic research, or the development of a particular device or item (e.g., a new automotive component or a new piece of software), or a new policy or procedure. The problem may be one that you are currently working on (or have worked on) in your other courses and projects, or it may be a new problem that interests you.

The problem that you choose is one that you will write on in several ways this semester. Therefore it is important to choose a problem large enough that it deserves your sustained investigation, but manageable enough that you can report on at least some substantive outcome of your effort. We will discuss suitable topics in class; see me during office hours soon if you have trouble selecting a topic.

Rhetorical Context

Purpose. For this assignment, you should assume that you are writing to a private foundation or governmental agency that sponsors research and development work. Alternatively, you may take on the role of an employee or a private consultant in business or industry. In any case, you must direct your writing to someone who has the authority to support and further your research or to bring it to a grinding halt. The purpose of your proposal is to convince your readers:

• that the problem you propose to solve is significant and urgent, and
• that you are capable of solving the problem in a timely and effective manner.
  

Audience. You should assume that the audience you are writing to will include some technical specialists who will review your proposal for feasibility and significance. But the people who ultimately pass on your proposal are likely NOT to be specialists in your field. They may include scientists, military officers, legislators, executives, and ordinary citizens. Since the audience that you must convince is so diverse, your best strategy is to assume little or no technical knowledge in your readers.

Note: I will not accept a thesis proposal per se--you are welcome to write on your thesis research as long as you write about it within the specified rhetorical context. In order to write within this rhetorical context, you may invent necessary supporting details (e.g., those related to your credentials). I trust it is understood that the fabrication of details is ONLY permitted for the purposes of this class.

Evaluation Criteria

• Does the proposal clearly define a significant problem in a compelling way?
• Does the proposal describe an appropriate line of work for solving the problem?
• Does the writer have the necessary qualification to carry out the proposed project?
• Is the proposal readable and persuasive?

Relevant Reading

Due Dates Problem Statement: Rough Draft: Final Draft: