The final paper for this class must be at least 1500 words. The paper and presentation will be done in groups. (A sample paper is here; that link doesn't work, please try this.) Please adhere to the following rules for the paper:

• The paper must have a descriptive title; it must be dated, and contain your name and the name of the class.

• The paper must have an abstract which succinctly summarizes the paper; it should be no more than 200 words. 

• The paper must make a hypothesis, and then argue for it. 

• The paper must have, at a minimum, an introduction (in which sufficient background material is discussed), a results or methods section, and a conclusion. 

• A draft of the paper will be due during the semester; please see the class schedule for the date. This draft will be reviewed by your peers. The draft needs to be complete, but does not need to be thoroughly edited.

• The topic must be scientific in nature. You may use the BioBlitz data, but you do not have to. I can offer suggestions for topics, if you like; please ask.

• The presentation will be done in groups, and will consist of a poster presentation. Your posters will be projected at the front of the classroom, and your presentations should take 5-10 minutes.