Plant Animal Interactions

Neonicotinoids are a class of pesticide that was developed to be safer and less toxic for vertebrates (including humans). However, they can cause problems with pollinators. What are the benefits and downsides of using these chemicals, and should we outlaw their use or regulate them in some way?

For your final paper, standard scientific research paper rules apply – correct grammar, sentence/paragraph structure, subject/verb agreement, spelling and punctuation. Be thorough but succinct. Present data and interpretation using appropriate references. Your opinions should be identified as such and supported by evidence.

Written material should be Calibri 11 point, at least 5 pages long with lines spaced at 1.5 lines, with spacing between paragraphs, and 1” margins (header and footer text may be included within that margin), as shown in this document. Caption figures and illustrations, and attribute their sources using Calibri, 10-point, bold font.

You should use at least 5 sources to support your arguments and counter arguments. Using primary sources like scientific papers is recommended, but you can also use secondary sources like review articles, articles in popular science magazines, or information from reputable websites like the USDA, Forest Service, Extension websites, etc. Wikipedia does not count as a source and be wary of websites whose sources you don’t recognize or seem highly biased (i.e. don’t use the website of a major pesticide company who’s trying to sell their product!) Make sure to cite references (books, articles, web sites) that you used, using standard format with (Author, year) at the end of the sentence being referenced. Your Bibliography should be a separate page, organized alphabetically by author. Refer to the Purdue On-line Writing Lab for help with citations.

Your position paper should include the following sections:

Introduction and Background This section will summarize and give background information about your selected topic. It will give an overview of the problem faced and any background information the reader needs to understand that issue. Incorporating what you have learned in class is encouraged!
Arguments – State your position in response to the prompt. How would you answer the question? Using current research to support your point, and include 2-3 research-backed arguments in support of your position. Be sure to include details that support these arguments.
Counter-Arguments- Include counter-arguments against your position. What has current research found that does not support your point (include 2-3 research-backed counter arguments).
Response to the counter-arguments- Why do you make a stronger argument? What pieces of the opposing arguments are lacking or are they strong arguments?
Conclusion -Summary of your position. Why is this issue important? What are some larger implications of the issue and your argument?

Content and completeness (75%)

All sections are present, and topics or issues are addressed

Background information and current research are incorporated appropriately
Understanding of the topic being argued is clearly shown

A clear position is stated, and the scientific basis for that position is clear.
Figures and illustrations are relevant and properly labeled
Sources are cited and listed in bibliography

Organization and expression (25%)

Proper formatting, grammar, sentence/paragraph structure, verb agreement, spelling and punctuation throughout the paper
Section headers clearly labeled per project guidelines

This is your opportunity to put what you’ve learned in class into practice. Imagine that you are a professional in the field submitting this position paper to the relevant journal to try to impact policy or management decisions. State your case in a clear and compelling way.