My assignment was worded oddly and I was just hoping someone can provide clarification for me. I am wondering if my ENTIRE paper needs to be in APA format (which would be odd for 2-3 pg. requirement) or if just the SOURCES need to be in APA Format (in which case, what is the proper way to head my paper?)
The assignment instructions read as thus:
Write a 2-3 page paper comparing and contrasting the two general categories of motivation theories, needs or content-based versus processed-based theories. Select one specific theory from each of these two general categories and discuss them in more detail.
Include at least two resources in APA format to support your paper, which can include the text and an article from the Discovery Services.
Submit the paper to your facilitator as an attachment in the drop box titled Motivation Paper.
Thank you for helping clarify for me.
Yes, it reads that only the resources you use need to be in APA format.
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/
You'd use only the appropriate formats listed in the Reference List sections here.
I think the assignment doesn't want the whole paper to be in APA format because when you submit it to the drop box, formatting will probably be lost. This tells you that content matters most!
Thank you!
You're welcome!
Based on the assignment instructions you provided, it seems that only the sources in your paper need to be in APA format, not the entire paper itself. You are required to include at least two resources in APA format to support your paper.
To clarify, here's how you can structure your paper:
1. Title: Start with a clear and concise title that reflects the content of your paper. For example, you can use "A Comparison of Needs-Based and Process-Based Motivation Theories."
2. Introduction: Begin your paper with an introduction that provides an overview of the topic and states the purpose of your paper. You can briefly explain the significance of studying motivation theories and why comparing and contrasting these two general categories is important.
3. Body: In the body of your paper, compare and contrast the two general categories of motivation theories: needs or content-based theories and process-based theories. Discuss the characteristics, key concepts, and examples of each category. Then, select one specific theory from each category and provide a more detailed analysis of these theories. Discuss their core principles, underlying assumptions, and any empirical evidence supporting or critiquing them. Use appropriate headings and subheadings to organize your ideas.
4. Conclusion: Conclude your paper by summarizing the main points you discussed and highlighting any broader implications or future research directions related to the topic.
Remember to integrate the APA-formatted sources you have selected into your paper by properly citing them in-text and including full references at the end. You may find the APA rules for in-text citations and reference list formatting in resources such as the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) or the APA Publication Manual.
Finally, when submitting your paper to your facilitator, save it as a Word document or PDF file and attach it as instructed in the drop box titled "Motivation Paper."