Assignment Prompt & Instructions
– 2 years ago
**files (4)**
– ## Template.docx
– ## GradingRubric.pdf
– ## ResearchPaperFinalSubmission.pdf
– ConceptsandTheoriesofHumanDevelopment.pdf
**## Template.docx**
**School of , Liberty University**
****Author Note****
**I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.**
**Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to . Email:**
**## Abstract**
**_Keywords_:**
**2**
**2**
**## References**
**## GradingRubric.pdf**
Criteria Ratings Points
Content,
Focus, and
Organization
123 to >111 pts
Advanced
The paper fully meets
or exceeds the
following content
requirements:
• The paper includes
the results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes
at least 8 scholarly
journal articles as
sources and may
include other sources,
including course
materials and the
Bible, but the bulk of
the paper is supported
by journal articles
reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the
paper does not digress
into unrelated topics.
• The paper flows
well, is concise without
being choppy, and
avoids dramatic or
flowery language.
• The paper appears
free of biases or
opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and
provides a summary of
the paper.
• The paper contains
a well-written
introduction that
provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains
a well-written summary
and a conclusion that
111 to >102 pts
Proficient
The paper meets most or
some of the following
content requirements:
• The paper includes the
results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes at
least 8 scholarly journal
articles as sources and
may include other
sources, including course
materials and the Bible,
but the bulk of the paper
is supported by journal
articles reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the paper
does not digress into
unrelated topics.
• The paper flows well, is
concise without being
choppy, and avoids
dramatic or flowery
language.
• The paper appears free
of biases or opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and provides
a summary of the paper.
• The paper contains a
well-written introduction
that provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains a
well-written summary and
a conclusion that flows
logically from the
research findings.
102 to >0 pts
Developing
The paper inadequately
meets the following
content requirements:
• The paper includes the
results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes at
least 8 scholarly journal
articles as sources and
may include other
sources, including course
materials and the Bible,
but the bulk of the paper
is supported by journal
articles reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the paper
does not digress into
unrelated topics.
• The paper flows well, is
concise without being
choppy, and avoids
dramatic or flowery
language.
• The paper appears free
of biases or opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and provides
a summary of the paper.
• The paper contains a
well-written introduction
that provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains a
well-written summary and
a conclusion that flows
logically from the
research findings.
0 pts
Not Present
The paper
does not
meet the
content
requirements.
123
pts
Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric |
PSYC725_B01_202520
Criteria Ratings Points
flows logically from the
research findings.
Grammar
and
Spelling,
Current APA
Format
Compliance,
and Length
52 to >47 pts
Advanced
The paper meets or
exceeds the following
structure
requirements:
• References are in
current APA format
and are cited in the
paper. All citations
have a corresponding
reference, and all
references are cited.
• The paper is written
in current APA format,
including title page,
page numbers, and
headings.
• Quotations, if used,
are not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8
pages, not including
title page, abstract,
and reference page(s).
47 to >43 pts
Proficient
The paper meets most or
some of the following
structure requirements:
• References are in
current APA format and
are cited in the paper. All
citations have a
corresponding reference,
and all references are
cited.
• The paper is written in
current APA format,
including title page, page
numbers, and headings.
• Quotations, if used, are
not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8 pages,
not including title page,
abstract, and reference
page(s).
43 to >0 pts
Developing
The paper partially or
inadequately meets the
following structure
requirements:
• References are in
current APA format and
are cited in the paper. All
citations have a
corresponding reference,
and all references are
cited.
• The paper is written in
current APA format,
including title page, page
numbers, and headings.
• Quotations, if used, are
not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8 pages,
not including title page,
abstract, and reference
page(s).
0 pts
Not Present
The paper
does not
meet the
structure
requirements.
52 pts
Total Points: 175
Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric |
PSYC725_B01_202520
**## ResearchPaperFinalSubmission.pdf**
PSYC 725
Page 1 of 3
RESEARCH PAPER: FINAL SUBMISSION ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW
Understanding and evaluating original research is an important skill for developmental
psychologists. Understanding research methodology and the sections of a journal article is
critical for doctoral-level psychologists. This assignment will help you learn to objectively
evaluate research on a developmental psychology topic and to seek, understand, and integrate
scholarly sources of information. This assignment will also help you gain scholarly knowledge of
a topic of interest. Researching the literature on a topic and integrating it will also help you begin
to clarify and discern your own research interests and will help prepare you to conduct
independent research and write about your findings in a scholarly manner.
INSTRUCTIONS
You will write a 7-8-page (not including title page, abstract, and reference page), research-based
paper in current APA format that focuses on a topic of your choice related to developmental
psychology. The paper must cite at least 8 scholarly journal articles (or chapters/articles from the
Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science, available in the LU online library,
may be used for up to 3 of the articles; see reference at the end of this document and the link to
this source under the Research Paper: Final Submission Resources section on the assignment
page). Other references, including the course text and the Bible, may be incorporated in addition
to the 8 journal articles, but the majority of the content of the paper must be supported by
research-based, scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles.
The following are not considered scholarly sources: about.com, psychologytoday.com,
Psychology Today magazine, Wikipedia, verywell.com (Kendra Cherry), simplypsychology.com
(Saul McLeod), psychcentral.com, webmd.com, mayoclinic.com, books written for a general
audience, and magazines written for a general audience. Many of these resources can be useful
for gaining knowledge of a topic and often contain accurate information, but they are not
scholarly sources acceptable for use in a graduate-level research paper. Non-scholarly sources
are not necessarily useless or inaccurate, but a graduate-level research paper must contain
research-based sources, such as journal articles describing original research studies. If you are
unsure whether or not a reference is scholarly, ask your instructor.
You can find a list of journals affiliated with the American Psychological Association (APA) on
the Research Paper: Final Submission Assignment page under Research Paper: Final
Submission Resources. These are not the only acceptable journals – many others are available –
but this list is provided to give you examples of scholarly journals. If you click “By Subject” and
then click “Developmental Psychology,” you will see journals specific to developmental
psychology. Child Development is another well-respected developmental psychology journal.
Some of the databases have the option to select “peer-reviewed” sources; selecting this option
will help you eliminate non-scholarly sources from your search results. The Jerry Falwell Library
is a reliable place to conduct your searches.
You do not need to pay for articles. Articles that ask you to pay for access can generally be
accessed through the Jerry Falwell Library without requiring payment.
Research papers must be written in formal, academic language. Avoid the following in a research
paper:
• Decorative fonts, color, and decorations on the title page
PSYC 725
Page 2 of 3
• Contractions
• One-sentence paragraphs
• Building suspense or writing in a dramatic style
• Flowery language
• Emotional language, such as saying “It is sad that…”
• Addressing the reader or the paper, or making the reader or the paper the subject of a
sentence, e.g. “In this paper, the reader [or you] will learn about…”
• The following words or phrases:
o “a lot” or “alot”
o “ok,” “OK,” or “okay”
o “nowadays,” “now-a-days,” or “now a days”
o “we” – as in “Now we are going to learn about…” or using “we” to refer to
people in general
o “you”
o “thru” for “through”
o “I think/feel/believe…”
o “oftentimes” or “often times”
o “based off of” for “based on”
• Redundancies such as “each and every” or using 2 conjunctions together, e.g. “but yet…”
• Separating 2 sentences with a comma
• Discussing the process of researching or writing the paper, e.g. “I went to the library and
read an article about…”
• Assuming the reader knows of the course you are taking or about your course textbook,
e.g. “In week 3 of our class…” or “As it states in our course textbook…” (If you use the
course textbook as a reference, use a citation and reference in current APA format, as you
would with any other reference.)
• Questioning the reader or beginning the paper with a question, e.g. “Have you ever
wondered about…?”
• Stating that the topic is an “interesting” or “important” topic
• Using vocabulary that you do not know the meaning of, or eloquent phrases, to attempt to
impress the reader
• Excessive quoting of other material
The Research Paper must be objective and present actual research findings, not your opinion or
what you want the research to show. Avoid exclusively using sources that support your biases.
Because people often choose topics about which they have strong opinions, you will have a
chance to discuss your opinions about your topic, as well as any personal significance the topic
has for you, in the Discussion Thread: Theory, Metatheory, Nature/Nurture, Human
Genome Project. The Research Paper itself is not a place to express opinions. You may
certainly reach a conclusion that supports your views, if that is what the research actually shows,
and express the conclusion in the paper, but such a conclusion must be supported by the research
you cite in the paper and cannot be based on your opinion.
There are 2 options for integrating a biblical perspective. You may incorporate a biblical
perspective into the paper, or you may discuss the topic from a biblical perspective as part of
PSYC 725
Page 3 of 3
your Discussion Thread: Theory, Metatheory, Nature/Nurture, Human Genome Project. Or
you may do both, if you wish.
This assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool. You will have
the opportunity to resubmit until you are satisfied there is no plagiarism, but if you plan to run
the paper through Turnitin multiple times, you must allow time for this process in order to
submit the final version of the paper on time. Note that sometimes the score may appear
relatively high because of the references or because of several small coincidental matches that
may not be of concern. You are not looking for a specific percentage; instead, examine the report
to see the matches to determine the significance of the similarities. If you are unsure if matches
that show up are of concern, contact your instructor. You will not be penalized for unintentional
plagiarism in drafts of the paper prior to your final submission.
Be sure to review the Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric before completing
the assignment.
Reference Information for Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science:
Lerner, R. M., Overton, W. F. & Molenaar, P.C.M. (Eds.). (2015). Handbook of child
psychology and developmental science, Vol. 1: Theory and method (7th ed.). John Wiley
& Sons.
You can access the above text on the Research Paper: Final Submission Assignment page
under Research Paper: Final Submission Resources.
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.
https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals
Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science: Theory and Method
[https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals](https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals)
**ConceptsandTheoriesofHumanDevelopment.pdf**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/conceptsandtheoriesofhumandevelopment-pdf-10201189)
**ConceptsandTheoriesofHumanDevelopment.pdf**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/conceptsandtheoriesofhumandevelopment-pdf-10201189)
**## Template.docx**
**School of , Liberty University**
****Author Note****
**I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.**
**Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to . Email:**
**## Abstract**
**_Keywords_:**
**2**
**2**
**## References**
**## GradingRubric.pdf**
Criteria Ratings Points
Content,
Focus, and
Organization
123 to >111 pts
Advanced
The paper fully meets
or exceeds the
following content
requirements:
• The paper includes
the results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes
at least 8 scholarly
journal articles as
sources and may
include other sources,
including course
materials and the
Bible, but the bulk of
the paper is supported
by journal articles
reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the
paper does not digress
into unrelated topics.
• The paper flows
well, is concise without
being choppy, and
avoids dramatic or
flowery language.
• The paper appears
free of biases or
opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and
provides a summary of
the paper.
• The paper contains
a well-written
introduction that
provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains
a well-written summary
and a conclusion that
111 to >102 pts
Proficient
The paper meets most or
some of the following
content requirements:
• The paper includes the
results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes at
least 8 scholarly journal
articles as sources and
may include other
sources, including course
materials and the Bible,
but the bulk of the paper
is supported by journal
articles reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the paper
does not digress into
unrelated topics.
• The paper flows well, is
concise without being
choppy, and avoids
dramatic or flowery
language.
• The paper appears free
of biases or opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and provides
a summary of the paper.
• The paper contains a
well-written introduction
that provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains a
well-written summary and
a conclusion that flows
logically from the
research findings.
102 to >0 pts
Developing
The paper inadequately
meets the following
content requirements:
• The paper includes the
results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes at
least 8 scholarly journal
articles as sources and
may include other
sources, including course
materials and the Bible,
but the bulk of the paper
is supported by journal
articles reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the paper
does not digress into
unrelated topics.
• The paper flows well, is
concise without being
choppy, and avoids
dramatic or flowery
language.
• The paper appears free
of biases or opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and provides
a summary of the paper.
• The paper contains a
well-written introduction
that provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains a
well-written summary and
a conclusion that flows
logically from the
research findings.
0 pts
Not Present
The paper
does not
meet the
content
requirements.
123
pts
Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric |
PSYC725_B01_202520
Criteria Ratings Points
flows logically from the
research findings.
Grammar
and
Spelling,
Current APA
Format
Compliance,
and Length
52 to >47 pts
Advanced
The paper meets or
exceeds the following
structure
requirements:
• References are in
current APA format
and are cited in the
paper. All citations
have a corresponding
reference, and all
references are cited.
• The paper is written
in current APA format,
including title page,
page numbers, and
headings.
• Quotations, if used,
are not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8
pages, not including
title page, abstract,
and reference page(s).
47 to >43 pts
Proficient
The paper meets most or
some of the following
structure requirements:
• References are in
current APA format and
are cited in the paper. All
citations have a
corresponding reference,
and all references are
cited.
• The paper is written in
current APA format,
including title page, page
numbers, and headings.
• Quotations, if used, are
not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8 pages,
not including title page,
abstract, and reference
page(s).
43 to >0 pts
Developing
The paper partially or
inadequately meets the
following structure
requirements:
• References are in
current APA format and
are cited in the paper. All
citations have a
corresponding reference,
and all references are
cited.
• The paper is written in
current APA format,
including title page, page
numbers, and headings.
• Quotations, if used, are
not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8 pages,
not including title page,
abstract, and reference
page(s).
0 pts
Not Present
The paper
does not
meet the
structure
requirements.
52 pts
Total Points: 175
Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric |
PSYC725_B01_202520
**## ResearchPaperFinalSubmission.pdf**
PSYC 725
Page 1 of 3
RESEARCH PAPER: FINAL SUBMISSION ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW
Understanding and evaluating original research is an important skill for developmental
psychologists. Understanding research methodology and the sections of a journal article is
critical for doctoral-level psychologists. This assignment will help you learn to objectively
evaluate research on a developmental psychology topic and to seek, understand, and integrate
scholarly sources of information. This assignment will also help you gain scholarly knowledge of
a topic of interest. Researching the literature on a topic and integrating it will also help you begin
to clarify and discern your own research interests and will help prepare you to conduct
independent research and write about your findings in a scholarly manner.
INSTRUCTIONS
You will write a 7-8-page (not including title page, abstract, and reference page), research-based
paper in current APA format that focuses on a topic of your choice related to developmental
psychology. The paper must cite at least 8 scholarly journal articles (or chapters/articles from the
Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science, available in the LU online library,
may be used for up to 3 of the articles; see reference at the end of this document and the link to
this source under the Research Paper: Final Submission Resources section on the assignment
page). Other references, including the course text and the Bible, may be incorporated in addition
to the 8 journal articles, but the majority of the content of the paper must be supported by
research-based, scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles.
The following are not considered scholarly sources: about.com, psychologytoday.com,
Psychology Today magazine, Wikipedia, verywell.com (Kendra Cherry), simplypsychology.com
(Saul McLeod), psychcentral.com, webmd.com, mayoclinic.com, books written for a general
audience, and magazines written for a general audience. Many of these resources can be useful
for gaining knowledge of a topic and often contain accurate information, but they are not
scholarly sources acceptable for use in a graduate-level research paper. Non-scholarly sources
are not necessarily useless or inaccurate, but a graduate-level research paper must contain
research-based sources, such as journal articles describing original research studies. If you are
unsure whether or not a reference is scholarly, ask your instructor.
You can find a list of journals affiliated with the American Psychological Association (APA) on
the Research Paper: Final Submission Assignment page under Research Paper: Final
Submission Resources. These are not the only acceptable journals – many others are available –
but this list is provided to give you examples of scholarly journals. If you click “By Subject” and
then click “Developmental Psychology,” you will see journals specific to developmental
psychology. Child Development is another well-respected developmental psychology journal.
Some of the databases have the option to select “peer-reviewed” sources; selecting this option
will help you eliminate non-scholarly sources from your search results. The Jerry Falwell Library
is a reliable place to conduct your searches.
You do not need to pay for articles. Articles that ask you to pay for access can generally be
accessed through the Jerry Falwell Library without requiring payment.
Research papers must be written in formal, academic language. Avoid the following in a research
paper:
• Decorative fonts, color, and decorations on the title page
PSYC 725
Page 2 of 3
• Contractions
• One-sentence paragraphs
• Building suspense or writing in a dramatic style
• Flowery language
• Emotional language, such as saying “It is sad that…”
• Addressing the reader or the paper, or making the reader or the paper the subject of a
sentence, e.g. “In this paper, the reader [or you] will learn about…”
• The following words or phrases:
o “a lot” or “alot”
o “ok,” “OK,” or “okay”
o “nowadays,” “now-a-days,” or “now a days”
o “we” – as in “Now we are going to learn about…” or using “we” to refer to
people in general
o “you”
o “thru” for “through”
o “I think/feel/believe…”
o “oftentimes” or “often times”
o “based off of” for “based on”
• Redundancies such as “each and every” or using 2 conjunctions together, e.g. “but yet…”
• Separating 2 sentences with a comma
• Discussing the process of researching or writing the paper, e.g. “I went to the library and
read an article about…”
• Assuming the reader knows of the course you are taking or about your course textbook,
e.g. “In week 3 of our class…” or “As it states in our course textbook…” (If you use the
course textbook as a reference, use a citation and reference in current APA format, as you
would with any other reference.)
• Questioning the reader or beginning the paper with a question, e.g. “Have you ever
wondered about…?”
• Stating that the topic is an “interesting” or “important” topic
• Using vocabulary that you do not know the meaning of, or eloquent phrases, to attempt to
impress the reader
• Excessive quoting of other material
The Research Paper must be objective and present actual research findings, not your opinion or
what you want the research to show. Avoid exclusively using sources that support your biases.
Because people often choose topics about which they have strong opinions, you will have a
chance to discuss your opinions about your topic, as well as any personal significance the topic
has for you, in the Discussion Thread: Theory, Metatheory, Nature/Nurture, Human
Genome Project. The Research Paper itself is not a place to express opinions. You may
certainly reach a conclusion that supports your views, if that is what the research actually shows,
and express the conclusion in the paper, but such a conclusion must be supported by the research
you cite in the paper and cannot be based on your opinion.
There are 2 options for integrating a biblical perspective. You may incorporate a biblical
perspective into the paper, or you may discuss the topic from a biblical perspective as part of
PSYC 725
Page 3 of 3
your Discussion Thread: Theory, Metatheory, Nature/Nurture, Human Genome Project. Or
you may do both, if you wish.
This assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool. You will have
the opportunity to resubmit until you are satisfied there is no plagiarism, but if you plan to run
the paper through Turnitin multiple times, you must allow time for this process in order to
submit the final version of the paper on time. Note that sometimes the score may appear
relatively high because of the references or because of several small coincidental matches that
may not be of concern. You are not looking for a specific percentage; instead, examine the report
to see the matches to determine the significance of the similarities. If you are unsure if matches
that show up are of concern, contact your instructor. You will not be penalized for unintentional
plagiarism in drafts of the paper prior to your final submission.
Be sure to review the Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric before completing
the assignment.
Reference Information for Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science:
Lerner, R. M., Overton, W. F. & Molenaar, P.C.M. (Eds.). (2015). Handbook of child
psychology and developmental science, Vol. 1: Theory and method (7th ed.). John Wiley
& Sons.
You can access the above text on the Research Paper: Final Submission Assignment page
under Research Paper: Final Submission Resources.
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.
https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals
Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science: Theory and Method
[https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals](https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals)
**ConceptsandTheoriesofHumanDevelopment.pdf**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/conceptsandtheoriesofhumandevelopment-pdf-10201189)
**## Template.docx**
**School of , Liberty University**
****Author Note****
**I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.**
**Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to . Email:**
**## Abstract**
**_Keywords_:**
**2**
**2**
**## References**
**## GradingRubric.pdf**
Criteria Ratings Points
Content,
Focus, and
Organization
123 to >111 pts
Advanced
The paper fully meets
or exceeds the
following content
requirements:
• The paper includes
the results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes
at least 8 scholarly
journal articles as
sources and may
include other sources,
including course
materials and the
Bible, but the bulk of
the paper is supported
by journal articles
reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the
paper does not digress
into unrelated topics.
• The paper flows
well, is concise without
being choppy, and
avoids dramatic or
flowery language.
• The paper appears
free of biases or
opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and
provides a summary of
the paper.
• The paper contains
a well-written
introduction that
provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains
a well-written summary
and a conclusion that
111 to >102 pts
Proficient
The paper meets most or
some of the following
content requirements:
• The paper includes the
results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes at
least 8 scholarly journal
articles as sources and
may include other
sources, including course
materials and the Bible,
but the bulk of the paper
is supported by journal
articles reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the paper
does not digress into
unrelated topics.
• The paper flows well, is
concise without being
choppy, and avoids
dramatic or flowery
language.
• The paper appears free
of biases or opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and provides
a summary of the paper.
• The paper contains a
well-written introduction
that provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains a
well-written summary and
a conclusion that flows
logically from the
research findings.
102 to >0 pts
Developing
The paper inadequately
meets the following
content requirements:
• The paper includes the
results of original
research regarding the
topic.
• The tone is objective
and professional.
• The paper includes at
least 8 scholarly journal
articles as sources and
may include other
sources, including course
materials and the Bible,
but the bulk of the paper
is supported by journal
articles reporting findings
of original research.
• The sources and the
totality of the paper are
on-topic, and the paper
does not digress into
unrelated topics.
• The paper flows well, is
concise without being
choppy, and avoids
dramatic or flowery
language.
• The paper appears free
of biases or opinion.
• The abstract is
well-written and provides
a summary of the paper.
• The paper contains a
well-written introduction
that provides an
appropriate framework
for the research that is
discussed.
• The paper contains a
well-written summary and
a conclusion that flows
logically from the
research findings.
0 pts
Not Present
The paper
does not
meet the
content
requirements.
123
pts
Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric |
PSYC725_B01_202520
Criteria Ratings Points
flows logically from the
research findings.
Grammar
and
Spelling,
Current APA
Format
Compliance,
and Length
52 to >47 pts
Advanced
The paper meets or
exceeds the following
structure
requirements:
• References are in
current APA format
and are cited in the
paper. All citations
have a corresponding
reference, and all
references are cited.
• The paper is written
in current APA format,
including title page,
page numbers, and
headings.
• Quotations, if used,
are not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8
pages, not including
title page, abstract,
and reference page(s).
47 to >43 pts
Proficient
The paper meets most or
some of the following
structure requirements:
• References are in
current APA format and
are cited in the paper. All
citations have a
corresponding reference,
and all references are
cited.
• The paper is written in
current APA format,
including title page, page
numbers, and headings.
• Quotations, if used, are
not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8 pages,
not including title page,
abstract, and reference
page(s).
43 to >0 pts
Developing
The paper partially or
inadequately meets the
following structure
requirements:
• References are in
current APA format and
are cited in the paper. All
citations have a
corresponding reference,
and all references are
cited.
• The paper is written in
current APA format,
including title page, page
numbers, and headings.
• Quotations, if used, are
not excessive.
• Proper spelling and
grammar are used.
• Paper is free of
typographical errors.
• Paper is 7 to 8 pages,
not including title page,
abstract, and reference
page(s).
0 pts
Not Present
The paper
does not
meet the
structure
requirements.
52 pts
Total Points: 175
Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric |
PSYC725_B01_202520
**## ResearchPaperFinalSubmission.pdf**
PSYC 725
Page 1 of 3
RESEARCH PAPER: FINAL SUBMISSION ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW
Understanding and evaluating original research is an important skill for developmental
psychologists. Understanding research methodology and the sections of a journal article is
critical for doctoral-level psychologists. This assignment will help you learn to objectively
evaluate research on a developmental psychology topic and to seek, understand, and integrate
scholarly sources of information. This assignment will also help you gain scholarly knowledge of
a topic of interest. Researching the literature on a topic and integrating it will also help you begin
to clarify and discern your own research interests and will help prepare you to conduct
independent research and write about your findings in a scholarly manner.
INSTRUCTIONS
You will write a 7-8-page (not including title page, abstract, and reference page), research-based
paper in current APA format that focuses on a topic of your choice related to developmental
psychology. The paper must cite at least 8 scholarly journal articles (or chapters/articles from the
Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science, available in the LU online library,
may be used for up to 3 of the articles; see reference at the end of this document and the link to
this source under the Research Paper: Final Submission Resources section on the assignment
page). Other references, including the course text and the Bible, may be incorporated in addition
to the 8 journal articles, but the majority of the content of the paper must be supported by
research-based, scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles.
The following are not considered scholarly sources: about.com, psychologytoday.com,
Psychology Today magazine, Wikipedia, verywell.com (Kendra Cherry), simplypsychology.com
(Saul McLeod), psychcentral.com, webmd.com, mayoclinic.com, books written for a general
audience, and magazines written for a general audience. Many of these resources can be useful
for gaining knowledge of a topic and often contain accurate information, but they are not
scholarly sources acceptable for use in a graduate-level research paper. Non-scholarly sources
are not necessarily useless or inaccurate, but a graduate-level research paper must contain
research-based sources, such as journal articles describing original research studies. If you are
unsure whether or not a reference is scholarly, ask your instructor.
You can find a list of journals affiliated with the American Psychological Association (APA) on
the Research Paper: Final Submission Assignment page under Research Paper: Final
Submission Resources. These are not the only acceptable journals – many others are available –
but this list is provided to give you examples of scholarly journals. If you click “By Subject” and
then click “Developmental Psychology,” you will see journals specific to developmental
psychology. Child Development is another well-respected developmental psychology journal.
Some of the databases have the option to select “peer-reviewed” sources; selecting this option
will help you eliminate non-scholarly sources from your search results. The Jerry Falwell Library
is a reliable place to conduct your searches.
You do not need to pay for articles. Articles that ask you to pay for access can generally be
accessed through the Jerry Falwell Library without requiring payment.
Research papers must be written in formal, academic language. Avoid the following in a research
paper:
• Decorative fonts, color, and decorations on the title page
PSYC 725
Page 2 of 3
• Contractions
• One-sentence paragraphs
• Building suspense or writing in a dramatic style
• Flowery language
• Emotional language, such as saying “It is sad that…”
• Addressing the reader or the paper, or making the reader or the paper the subject of a
sentence, e.g. “In this paper, the reader [or you] will learn about…”
• The following words or phrases:
o “a lot” or “alot”
o “ok,” “OK,” or “okay”
o “nowadays,” “now-a-days,” or “now a days”
o “we” – as in “Now we are going to learn about…” or using “we” to refer to
people in general
o “you”
o “thru” for “through”
o “I think/feel/believe…”
o “oftentimes” or “often times”
o “based off of” for “based on”
• Redundancies such as “each and every” or using 2 conjunctions together, e.g. “but yet…”
• Separating 2 sentences with a comma
• Discussing the process of researching or writing the paper, e.g. “I went to the library and
read an article about…”
• Assuming the reader knows of the course you are taking or about your course textbook,
e.g. “In week 3 of our class…” or “As it states in our course textbook…” (If you use the
course textbook as a reference, use a citation and reference in current APA format, as you
would with any other reference.)
• Questioning the reader or beginning the paper with a question, e.g. “Have you ever
wondered about…?”
• Stating that the topic is an “interesting” or “important” topic
• Using vocabulary that you do not know the meaning of, or eloquent phrases, to attempt to
impress the reader
• Excessive quoting of other material
The Research Paper must be objective and present actual research findings, not your opinion or
what you want the research to show. Avoid exclusively using sources that support your biases.
Because people often choose topics about which they have strong opinions, you will have a
chance to discuss your opinions about your topic, as well as any personal significance the topic
has for you, in the Discussion Thread: Theory, Metatheory, Nature/Nurture, Human
Genome Project. The Research Paper itself is not a place to express opinions. You may
certainly reach a conclusion that supports your views, if that is what the research actually shows,
and express the conclusion in the paper, but such a conclusion must be supported by the research
you cite in the paper and cannot be based on your opinion.
There are 2 options for integrating a biblical perspective. You may incorporate a biblical
perspective into the paper, or you may discuss the topic from a biblical perspective as part of
PSYC 725
Page 3 of 3
your Discussion Thread: Theory, Metatheory, Nature/Nurture, Human Genome Project. Or
you may do both, if you wish.
This assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool. You will have
the opportunity to resubmit until you are satisfied there is no plagiarism, but if you plan to run
the paper through Turnitin multiple times, you must allow time for this process in order to
submit the final version of the paper on time. Note that sometimes the score may appear
relatively high because of the references or because of several small coincidental matches that
may not be of concern. You are not looking for a specific percentage; instead, examine the report
to see the matches to determine the significance of the similarities. If you are unsure if matches
that show up are of concern, contact your instructor. You will not be penalized for unintentional
plagiarism in drafts of the paper prior to your final submission.
Be sure to review the Research Paper: Final Submission Grading Rubric before completing
the assignment.
Reference Information for Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science:
Lerner, R. M., Overton, W. F. & Molenaar, P.C.M. (Eds.). (2015). Handbook of child
psychology and developmental science, Vol. 1: Theory and method (7th ed.). John Wiley
& Sons.
You can access the above text on the Research Paper: Final Submission Assignment page
under Research Paper: Final Submission Resources.
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.
https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals
Handbook of Child Psychology and Developmental Science: Theory and Method
[https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals](https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals)
**ConceptsandTheoriesofHumanDevelopment.pdf**
This file is too large to display. [View in new window](https://www.sweetstudy.com/files/conceptsandtheoriesofhumandevelopment-pdf-10201189)