BIOL220: Dr. Knight: Scientific Paper

Write a complete scientific paper as if it were to be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Research project entitled: "The physical, chemical and biological parameters in determining stream health in Neshaminy Creek."

Include the following sections:

• Abstract -- introduction to the research topic including a clear summary and conclusion to the research
• Introduction -- brief review of the literature/references presenting the background, justification, and relevance of your study
• Materials and Methods -- information from the Test Kit Instructions or Biological DCNR Instructions provided for each of the parameters (physical, chemical, biological)
• Results -- raw data from all groups provided via email
• Discussion -- breakdown of results in detail (mean, sample variance and sample deviation for each of the parameters)
• References -- nine peer-reviewed or scholarly publications (must be cited in the Introduction)

Note: Though the Abstract section is positioned at the beginning of the paper, it should be written after you have completed the research and all other sections.

An abstract of a scientific research paper will contain several mandatory components. When reading an abstract, keep the following key process elements in mind:

• Reason for writing: What is the importance of the research? Why would a reader be interested in the larger work?
• Problem: What problem does this work attempt to solve? What is the scope of the project? What is the main argument/thesis/claim?
• Methodology: An abstract of a scientific work may include specific models or approaches used in the larger study. Other abstracts may describe the types of evidence used in the research.
• Results: An abstract of a scientific work may include specific data that indicates the results of the project; other abstracts may discuss the findings in a more general way.
• Implications: What changes should be implemented as a result of the findings of the work? How does this work add to the body of knowledge on the topic?

(This list of elements is adapted with permission from Philip Koopman, “How to Write an Abstract.”)