Prepare a detailed outline for your final paper. The outline should have six major sections: Section 1: Begin this section with your introduction, which must include a thesis statement (the central argument, or main point, of your paper). Sections 2-5: These sections should cover the four topic areas specified in the assignment instructions, in whichever order you choose to cover them; and 6)
QUESTION
Prepare a detailed outline for your final paper. The outline should have six major sections:
Section 1: Begin this section with your introduction, which must include a thesis statement (the central argument, or main point, of your paper).
Sections 2-5: These sections should cover the four topic areas specified in the assignment instructions, in whichever order you choose to cover them; and 6)
Section 6: Your outline should end with the conclusion, summarizing the key points and re-stating the thesis.
Your outline should meet the following requirements:
2-3 pages in length (not counting your references)
8 credible outside sources. These sources should be cited within the outline where you plan to use them.
You are welcome to include visual elements; however, they also will not count toward the minimum length. The outline content does not have to be in complete sentences but should be sufficiently clear for the reader to understand easily. Your finished outline will be reviewed both by the instructor and your peers.
Earth Science in a National Park
Choose a national park of particular interest to you; here is a list of all 58 of them: https://www.nationalpark-adventures.com/united-states-national-parks.html (Links to an external site.). What does Earth Science reveal about that national park through time? This research paper will provide you with an opportunity to learn more about a chosen park. In your report, be sure to cover the following topics:
The geography of your national park – where it is located on Earth, what the topography is like (major mountains, lakes, etc.), and what surface processes are currently shaping it (rivers, ocean waves, etc.)
The plate tectonic setting of your national park – where it is located relative to plate boundaries, what tectonic processes are active in your region (earthquakes, volcanoes, etc.)
The geologic story of your national park – what rocks and minerals are found there, and what stories they tell about how your park has changed over geologic time. (For instance, was it once the site of an ocean or sea? If so, what evidence is there for that, and when did it happen?)
The weather and climate of your national park – what the climate is like in your park, what extreme weather your park experiences, what effects of global climate change your park is already experiencing, what the projected impacts of climate change on your park may be—and what is currently being done, if anything, to address these challenges.
Your final paper should meet the following requirements:
6-8 pages in length (does not include title page, reference page, visual elements)
8-10 credible outside sources
ANSWER
Outline for Research Paper: Earth Science in a National Park
Introduction
Brief overview of the chosen national park and its significance
Thesis statement: Earth Science provides valuable insights into the geography, plate tectonics, geologic history, and weather/climate of the national park, enhancing our understanding of its evolution over time.
Geography of the National Park
Location on Earth
Topography and major geographic features (mountains, lakes, etc.)
Current surface processes shaping the park (rivers, ocean waves, etc.)
Plate Tectonic Setting of the National Park
Relative location to plate boundaries
Active tectonic processes in the region (earthquakes, volcanoes, etc.)
Geologic Story of the National Park
Rocks and minerals found in the park
Interpretation of the geologic history based on the rocks and minerals
Evidence for past geological events, such as oceans or seas, and their timing
Weather and Climate of the National Park
Climate characteristics of the park
Extreme weather events experienced in the park
Effects of global climate change on the park
Projected impacts of climate change on the park
Current initiatives addressing climate change challenges in the park
Conclusion
Summary of the key points discussed in each section
Restatement of the thesis highlighting the importance of Earth Science in understanding the park’s evolution
Final thoughts on the significance of studying Earth Science in national parks
References: (APA format)
Note: The outline above provides a general structure for your research paper. You can expand each section with more specific details, subheadings, and citations from credible outside sources. Ensure that you include at least 8 credible sources throughout the paper, citing them within the appropriate sections.
