Final Proposal Paper

Learning Outcome: After successful completion of this assignment, you will be able to
explain a scientific process and also be able to write a grant request / proposal paper.

This assignment allows you to not only develop writing skills, but also to implement
Bioenergy knowledge into a final paper for the course.

In this assignment you will identify a Bioenergy related need or problem and write a
short (3 4 page) research proposal based on your chosen topic. You may write the
proposal as either a scientist writing a grant proposal or as another entity (start-up, non-
profit, etc.). Please demonstrate clarity and compelling reasons why someone should give
you money. You proposal should include the following sections:

Proposal Summary: This should look something like an abstract and should summarize
each of the following sections key points in one sentence.

Problem Statement: This is your introduction and should show a clear statement of your
need or problem.

Objectives: Describe your general goal and your main objectives of your project.

Methods: How would you go about solving your need or problem? You could list your
methods and make sure they are realistic.

Outcomes and Impact: What effect would this project have on the world as a whole and
list possible impacts of your project.

References: In text citations should be used with the Bioenergy Journal format and listed
on the last page. Your references must be reputable sources and peer reviewed articles.


GRADING CRITERIA POINTS
ORGANIZATION: The proposal is clear and organized that includes all the required
sections. Bioenergy process, problem, or need is stated in each section.

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CONTENT:
Proposal Summary: Gives a summary of each sections key points and keeps the reader
intrigued.
Problem Statement: Good choice of facts (with references as needed) to introduce the
problem. Clear problem statement.
Objectives: Clearly explained.
Methods: Writer makes it clear how the problem will be solvedapproach, techniques,
etc. Must be a realistic approach to solve a problem.
Outcomes and impacts: Writer conveys the importance of the project in a convincing
way.
References: Writer backs up facts and assertions with references. Writer gives references
for methods, experimental approaches, etc. References are from reputable sources.


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STYLE: The proposal is written in a style and tone appropriate to the audience, topic and
purpose. The writing is direct and easy to follow. Words are appropriate and well
chosen. Writer avoids directly addressing the reader or using rhetorical questions (example:
Have you ever wondered) Writer leaves out unnecessary verbiage (examples: I
believe, I think, I feel, In my opinion, it goes without saying, the data show
that). Bioenergy related terminology is written clearly and in a scientific manner.

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GRAMMAR, SPELLING, MECHANICS
Writer doesnt make mistakes in grammar (comma splices, fragments, fused sentences,
agreement, etc.), spelling, and mechanics (margins, format, etc.). Writer uses the appropriate
verb tense for science writing (present tense to report facts, past tense to report what you did,
what you observed, etc.), and avoids passive voice when possible.

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TOTAL
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