Resarch Paper Structure

Structure of the research paper:
While research papers can be structured in many different ways, the following structure is the model most often used.  All students will be required to follow this structure.

Thesis Paragraph
The thesis paragraph briefly states the significance of the topic, introduces the reader to historians opinions concerning the topic, and concludes by stating the thesis of the paper.
Summary of the topic
The topic summary should narrate the major facts related to the topic.  These should generally accepted facts (not opinions, analysis, or interpretation) and should not require any citations.  The length of the this section varies, depending on the overall length of the paper and the complexity of the topic chosen.  It usually ranges from one to four paragraphs.
Historians views of the topic
The historian section describes the interpretations and disagreements that historians have about the topic.  There should be some brief quotes from the historians mentioned, with citations.  The length of the this section varies, depending on the overall length of the paper and the complexity of the topic chosen.  It usually ranges from two to four paragraphs.
Body
The body is where the writer develops and supports their thesis.  In the body of the paper, the writer provides support for their thesis by quoting primary source evidence, with citations.  Depending on the guidelines and requirements of the assignment, the primary sources may have been found in secondary sources (where historians use primary source quotes to support their argument) or in original primary sources. The body is the longest part of the paper and the length will depend on the requirements of the paper, as well as the complexity of the topic and the thesis.  It may range from 3 to 10 pages.
Conclusion
The conclusion should briefly restate the thesis and summarize the major evidence that has been provided to prove the thesis.  The writer should then offer some remarks about the significance of the topic and thesis.  One (but hardy the only) example of significance is the relevance of the topic to later or contemporary events.  The conclusion is a single paragraph