1 Typing Template for APA Papers: A Sample of Proper Formatting for APA Style Student A. Sample College Name, Course Number: Course Title Instructor’s Name Assignment Due Date 2 Abstract An abstract is a brief, comprehensive summary of the contents of a paper that runs a maximum of 250 words (American Psychological Association, 2020). It should contain a synopsis of the points in the paper but also be readable and well organized. It should be a single paragraph. To use this page of the template, simply delete this paragraph and start typing. The formatting should stay the same, with no indentation. An abstract is not required unless the assignment asks for one. Check the assignment details before including this element in your paper. 3 Typing Template for APA Papers: A Sample of Proper Formatting for APA Style This is an electronic template for papers written according to the style of the American Psychological Association (APA, 2020) as outlined in the seventh edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. The purpose of the template is to help students set the margins and spacing. Margins are set at 1 inch for top, bottom, left, and right. The text is left-justified only; that means the left margin is straight, but the right margin is ragged. Each paragraph is indented 0.5 inch. It is best to use the tab key to indent, or set a firstline indent in the paragraph settings. The line spacing is double throughout the paper, even on the reference page. One space is used after punctuation at the end of sentences. The font style used in this template is Times New Roman and the font size is 12 point. This font and size is required for GCU papers. The Section Heading The heading above would be used if you want to have your paper divided into sections based on content. This is a Level 1 heading, and it is centered and bolded, and the initial word and each word of four or more letters is capitalized. The heading should be a short descriptor of the section. Note that not all papers will have headings or subheadings in them. Papers for beginning undergraduate courses (100 or 200 level) will generally not need headings beyond Level 1. The paper title serves as the heading for the first paragraph of the paper, so ‘Introduction’ is not used as a heading. Subsection Heading The subheading above would be used if there are several sections within the topic labeled in a first level heading. This is a Level 2 heading, and it is flush left and bolded, and the initial word and each word of four or more letters is capitalized. 4 Subsection Heading APA dictates that you should avoid having only one subsection heading and subsection within a section. In other words, use at least two subheadings under a main heading, or do not use any at all. Headings are used in order, so a paper must use Level 1 before using Level 2. Do not adjust spacing to change where on the page a heading falls, even if it would be the last line on a page. The Title Page When you are ready to write, and after having read these instructions completely, you can delete these directions and start typing. The formatting should stay the same. You will also need to change the items on the title page. Fill in your own title, name, course, college, instructor, and date. List the college to which the course belongs, such as College of Theology, College of Business, or College of Humanities and Social Sciences. GCU uses three letters and numbers with a hyphen for course numbers, such as CWV-101 or UNV-104. The date should be written as Month Day, Year. Spell out the month name. Formatting References and Citations APA Style includes rules for citing resources. The Publication Manual (APA, 2020) also discusses the desired tone of writing, grammar, punctuation, formatting for numbers, and a variety of other important topics. Although APA Style rules are used in this template, the purpose of the template is only to demonstrate spacing and the general parts of the paper. GCU has prepared an APA Style Guide available in the Student Success Center and on the GCU Library’s Citing Sources in APA guide (https://libguides.gcu.edu/APA) for help in correctly formatting according to APA Style. 5 The reference list should appear at the end of a paper. It provides the information necessary for a reader to locate and retrieve any source you cite in the body of the paper. Each source you cite in the paper must appear in your reference list; likewise, each entry in the reference list must be cited in your text. A sample reference page is included below. This page includes examples of how to format different reference types. The first reference is to a webpage without a clear date, which is common with organizational websites (American Nurses Association, n.d.). Next is the Publication Manual referred to throughout this template (APA, 2020). Notice that the manual reference includes the DOI number, even though this is a print book, as the DOI was listed on book, and does not include a publisher name since the publisher is also the author. A journal article reference will also often include a DOI, and as this article has four authors, only the first would appear in the in-text citation (Copeland et al., 2013). Government publications like the Treatment Improvement Protocol series documents from the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (2014) are another common source found online. A book without a DOI is the last example (Holland & Forrest, 2017). 6 References American Nurses Association. (n.d.). Scope of practice. https://www.nursingworld.org/practicepolicy/scope-of-practice/ American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000 Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2014). Improving cultural competence (HHS Publication No. 14-4849). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK248428/ Copeland, T., Henderson, B., Mayer, B., & Nicholson, S. (2013). Three different paths for tabletop gaming in school libraries. Library Trends, 61(4), 825–835. https://doi.org/10.1353/lib.2013.0018 Holland, R. A., & Forrest, B. K. (2017). Good arguments: Making your case in writing and public speaking. Baker Academic. Social Media Analysis In this assignment, you will be analyzing the communicative influence of social media apps. Choose a social media app to analyze 1. Write 750-1,000 words. 2. Explain important historical context surrounding the creation of the app (i.e., how and why was it created?). 3. Explain the key communication features of the app (i.e., how is it used?). Be detailed, giving examples and/or screen shots – if available to you to aid in your explanation. 4. Use media theories/theorists to help you argue for what impact this app has on users’ communication behaviors (i.e., how does this app change users’ communication motives, purpose, style, and choices). 5. A minimum of one academic source is required. This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion. ownload Description Percentage Unsatisfactory Less Than Satisfact… Satisfactory Good 0.00 % 65.00 % 75.00 % 85.00 Content 80.0 20.0 Explain important historical context surrounding the creation of the app Explanation of important historical contexts surrounding the creation of the app is missing. Explanation of important historical contexts surrounding the creation of the app is vague. Explanation of important historical contexts surrounding the creation of the app is adequate. Explanation of important historical contexts surroui the creation of the app is thorough. Explain the key communication features 10.0 of the app Explanation of key communication features of the app is missing. Explanation of key communication features of the app is lacking. Explanation of key communication features of the app is adequate. Explanation of key communication features app is thorough. 50.0 Media theories/theorists are used to help argue the impact this app has on users’ communication behaviors The use of media theories/theorists to help argue the impact this app has on users’ communication behavior is missing. The use of media theories/theorists to help argue the impact this app has on users’ communication behavior is minimal. The use of media theories/theorists to help argue the impact this app has on users’ communication behavior is adequate. The use of media theories/theorists to help argue the impact this app on users’ communication behavior is effective. Bi Download Description Percentage Unsatisfactory Less Than Satisfact… Satisfactory Good 0.00 % 65.00 % 75.00 % 85.00 Thesis Development and Purpose 6.0 Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim. Thesis is insufficiently developed or vague. Purpose is not clear. Thesis is apparent and appropriate to purpose. Thesis is clear and foreca: the development of the p Thesis is descriptive and reflective of the argumen and appropriate to the purpose. Paragraph Development and Transitions 6.0 Paragraphs and transitions consistently lack unity and coherence. No apparent connections between paragraphs are established. Transitions are inappropriate to purpose and scope. Organization is disjointed. Some paragraphs and transitions may lack logical progression of ideas, unity, coherence, or cohesiveness. Some degree of organization is evident. Paragraphs are generally competent, but ideas may show some inconsistency in organization or in their relationship to each other. A logical progression of id between paragraphs is apparent. Paragraphs exh unity, coherence, and cohesiveness. Topic sente and concluding remarks a appropriate to purpose. 5.0 Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use) Surface errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice or sentence construction is used. Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register) or word choice are present. Sentence structure is correct but not varied. Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but they are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct and varied sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are employed. Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, althou few may be present. The writer uses a variety of effective sentence struct? and figures of speech. 1.0 Paper Format (use of appropriate style for the major and assignment) Appropriate template is not used appropriately or documentation format is rarely followed correctly. Appropriate template is used, but some elements are missing or mistaken; lack of control with formatting is apparent. Appropriate template is used, and formatting is correct, although some minor errors may be present. Appropriate template is fi used; There are virtually errors in formatting style. 2.0 Sources are not documented. Documentation of Sources (citations, footnotes, references, bibliography, etc., as appropriate to assignment and style) Documentation of sources is inconsistent or incorrect, as appropriate to assignment and style, with numerous formatting errors. Sources are documented, as appropriate to assignment and style, although some formatting errors may be present. Sources are documented, appropriate to assignment style, and format is mostl correct. Total Percentage 100 Purchase answer to see full attachment

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.