For this assignment, students will select one of the following topics or issues related to Death & Dying to research:
- Loss of spouse: role of caretaker (include perspectives of dying spouse)
- Death by natural causes
- The death penalty: The convicted (not legal political perspective, simply related to death and dying) and the victim
- Unproven therapies
- End of life: Hospice, Palliative Care, Health care reform
- Euthanasia / Assisted suicide
- Suicide
- Cultural and religious rituals and differences
- Healthcare costs/financial issues
- Advance directives (DNRs)
- Legal aspects of dying
- Accidental death: loved one in the military, auto accident
- Violent/criminal death of loved one
- Death, spirituality and coping
The following are examples of some points you can include as they relate to your topic:
- Description of topic: Briefly describe your specific topic and why it is of particular interest for the course.
- Dying process: Describe the death and dying process.
- Support: Describe how you would be able to support the grieving individual.
- Community support: What resources are available in your community? Describe how you would help someone dealing with issue of death in your community.
- Legal or ethical issues: Examine and discuss any specific, relevant legal or ethical issues.
- Personal perspectives/examples: Share any insights you may have on this topic that best explain personal thoughts, beliefs, and values. Use pertinent examples to illustrate your points.
Writing the Final Paper
The Final Paper:
- Must be eight to ten double-spaced pages in length, and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
- Must include a title page with the following:
- Title of paper.
- Student’s name.
- Course name and number.
- Instructor’s name.
- Date submitted.
- Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.
- Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
- Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
- Must use at least five scholarly sources, including a minimum of two from the Ashford University Library.
- Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
- Must include a separate reference page, formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
