In a short article (two pages) portraying your research in an understandable context, define a concept that is central to your field of interest. For example, one could define fusion and discuss its possible place in energy production. Your article must be suitable for the intended readership: an interested and well-educated, but not technical audience. Be prepared to explain how your imagined audience and purpose shaped your strategy. Please double-space this assignment.

Due in Class #5. Bring the original and one copy to class. Distribute a copy to each member of your editing group at least one day before class.

Write a one to two page memo or job-application letter suitable for an academic or professional, technical environment. Please single space this assignment.

Due in Class #9 or one day after the class. Bring the original and one copy to our conference.

Write an abstract (150-250 words) and an introduction (two pages) to a technical report, article or short thesis. Include a short note to me explaining your audience and purpose. Label your abstract as "informative," "descriptive," or "combination."

Due in Class #14.

Write a three page proposal for research funding, for permission to take action, or advocating for a change. You can use this assignment to propose your final project, which will help you organize it in advance. Below are some ideas for the kinds of proposals you can write:

1. A UROP or UG thesis proposal.
2. A section of a longer MS or Ph.D proposal.
3. A proposal for research. (Even research that you are already working on).
4. A proposal for a research paper you are working on in another course, or you may write in a future class.
5. A proposal for a literature review.
6. A proposal for a change in department policy.
7. A proposal for a change in graduate school policy / student life.

See me now if you are having trouble finding a topic for your proposal or for the final project. Do not wait until the end of term. A tentative, but formal outline for your final project must accompany your proposal. Follow the outlining guidelines provided on the following page.

Due five days after Class #19. Bring the original and one copy to class. Distribute a copy to each member of your editing group at least one day before class.

Write a 12-15-page paper on a technical topic of your choice. The project can be one (or part) of the following:

• A technical term paper you are writing for another course  .
• A review paper.
• A research paper.
• An undergraduate thesis.
• A section of a Master's or Ph.D. thesis.
• A Ph.D. thesis proposal.
• A UROP report.
• An expanded and revised lab report.
• A journal article.

Other formats may be approved with sufficient advance notice.

Remember, this paper counts for 25% of your grade. You will not have the opportunity to submit a second draft. The paper must

1. Be double-spaced in 12 point font.
2. Have indented paragraphs.
3. Incorporate figures, tables, and equations appropriately into the text.
4. Include internal and end references in conventional format.
5. Be written in formal academic prose.
6. Be handed in on time; no late papers will be accepted.

Due in Class #25. Bring the original to class.

(to accompany Proposal Assignment)

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Stages of Sleep

2.1 Awake
2.2 Stage 1
2.3 Stage 2
2.4 Stage 3
2.5 REM sleep

3.0 Role of Slow-Wave Sleep

3.1 Restoration and growth
3.2 Immunity to viral infection

4.0 Role of REM Sleep

4.1 Memory Storage and retention
4.2 Memory organization and reorganization
4.3 Replenishment of neurotransmitters

5.0 The Sleep Cycle

6.0 Conclusions