Paper 2: Making Arguments with Graphs
Overview
For this paper, you will be making an argument using a graph which you
have created using R.
Materials
R Examples
Graph Creation
First, you will create a graph.
Select a dataset from one of the above collections that is focused on personal data, where
you can infer information about the individuals represented in the dataset.
Copy this Template R notebook in Kaggle and load in your chosen dataset.
Using the R examples we have worked through in class, select columns from this dataset
and create a graph which provides some insight into the dataset and gives you the
basis for a compelling argument about the topic.
Save this graph (easiest to drag it to a new window, then right-click and save the image)
and paste it into Word or Google Docs to write your paper.
Paper requirements
Your paper should be at least three pages and no more than five pages, including
references. The lines should be double-spaced, otherwise it should use the defaults of your writing software (Word, Notes,
Google Docs), do not change the margins, font choice, or font size.
Outline of Paper
Use the following structure to write your paper. You do not need
to write it from top to bottom; it is often useful to spend time writing and
revising different sections back and forth. Your paper will be graded based
on how well you follow this template and answer the questions given in each section.
Name and Title
At the top of your paper, include a header section that lists your name, the
name of this class, and the date.
Next, add a title that summarizes your paper, about 5-10 words. Make sure
this title is centered rather than left-justified.
Introduction
First, you should lay the groundwork for the topic you will be discussing in your paper.
What would someone need to know about the topic if they are unfamiliar with it in
order to understand your argument below? What question will you be answering with
your graph and later discussion?
Also in this paragraph explain what about this topic is of interest to you and
why you selected it for this paper.
Data Provenance
Detail in a few sentences how this specific data was gathered, when,
and by whom. You will need to research the original paper that discussed
the dataset to find this information. Summarize this in your own words,
do not copy from the source.
Graph
Your graph should come next, and it should be appropriately sized and readable.
Be sure to give your figure a label and caption, such as “Figure 1: Weight Gain of
Lemurs Across Different Species,” and refer back to the figure with its label (Figure 1)
through the rest of your paper.
Aesthetics and Geometry
Describe in words the data that you have mapped to each axis, and the scale
that is being shown for each axis. Also describe your choice of graph geometry
(bar, histogram, scatter plot, line graph, etc),
and why this is a good choice for your data.
Argument
Now, to the heart of your paper. What is the graph trying to convey about the data?
Does this match expectations or confound them? Because of what the graph demonstrates,
what should be done? How do you recommend the reader take action based on this graph?
Conclusion
Finally discuss the limitations of your graph and of your argument. Has anything
been lost about the topic by quantifying and aggregating the information into
numbers? What could someone do to follow up on your paper, possibly gathering more
detailed data, looking at a larger dataset, ensuring diversity among the individuals
in your dataset, that could improve or counter your argument?
References
The last section will be a listing of the references you have used in your paper.
You may use MLA, APA, or other formats, as long as
you are consistent in your choice, and a reader can easily find the reference.
Grading Rubric
This linked rubric will be used to grade your paper and provide feedback. Review the rubric before you submit your paper to help ensure that you are meeting all of the requirements.