Since its publication in 1818, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, has captivated audiences worldwide for its introduction to science fiction through the mention of cloning. Though largely a novel considered fusing both Gothic and Romantic elements, it is this look into science that has been of the utmost interest to students when tasked to write a research paper on the novel. Here is the key to complete a great research paper on Frankenstein and cloning:
- Choose a Specific Approach and Start with a Draft Thesis
- Gather Your Sources and Evidence to Support Your Claims
- Do Your Research! Read the Primary and Secondary Texts
- Develop a Mental Map or Research Paper Outline
- Revise, Edit and Proofread Your Research Paper
When you take a close look at Frankenstein, you will notice that there are a number of themes that stick out. Choose one that relates to cloning and brainstorm a few ideas for your thesis statement. Take good notes and see if you can narrow the focus of your draft thesis.
Use keywords taken from your draft thesis to conduct online database searches for similar content. Create a bibliography and see if you can request or access these academic sources. Next, head down to your school library and conduct a new search for materials within its collection.
Take ample notes from the materials you have found. Read both Frankenstein and the secondary texts you have that discuss the subject of cloning. The more notes you take the more prepared you will be to support your claims, even if you end up not using all of the information you’ve culled from sources.
There are several effective techniques for organizing one’s research notes. A mental map looks a lot like cluster spider web with related ideas linked to each other. An outline is an ordered display of those same ideas in a logical format. Whichever you feel works the best for you is fine, as long as you think critically in its development.
After writing your first draft you will need to revise your argument. This is an important step in the process, requiring you to rethink or re-vision your argument so that you can make it more effective. Set your work aside after revising and then start your edits. You should look for ways to improve your writing so that it is concise and direct. Finally, proofread your work to ensure you have corrected all mistakes in grammar, spelling and punctuation.