March 2014
English 3201
Independent Novel Study
Research Assignment
The following assignment is intended to clarify and extend upon your knowledge of the
Independent Novel you have chosen to read as well as satisfy many of the course outcomes related to GCO #5 which states: “ Students will be expected to interpret, select, and combine information, using a variety of strategies, resources, and technologies.”
TASK
Students are to read ONE of the novels from the list below and then use this work as the basis of a research paper. You have THREE options to represent your knowledge of your novel. Be sure to consider each carefully and select the medium that best suits your strengths.
What topics should I cover in my research paper?
The topics listed below are just some possible avenues to explore in your research paper. You are welcome and encouraged to explore and research other topics that you think are relevant to your novel. You will need to check with your teacher before doing this to make sure you are on the right track.
The Fellowship of the Ring research topics:
What were the influences on J.R.R Tolkien that shaped and inspired the novel?
What is The Fellowship of the Ring’s place in pop culture (i.e. movie, song, etc.)?
How does The Fellowship of the Ring effectively fit the mould of fantasy literature?
The Stone Angel research topics:
Examine the effective use of symbolism and allusion in The Stone Angel
Research elderly care in Canada and explore some issues that are present in the novel.
Explore the Great Depression in Manitoba and how this setting affected characters in the novel.
Dracula research topics:
What was Stoker’s inspiration for the character of
Dracula ?
Examine the portrayal of sexuality in the novel Dracula ?
Examine the use of symbolism of Dracula .
Matter of Honour research topics:
Explain how A Matter of Honour fits the mould of a historical fiction.
Explain how A Matter of Honour fits mould of a spy novel.
Examine the portrayal of the Cold War in the novel (which aspects are accurate/inaccurate?)

Schindler’s List research topics:
Explore some of the controversy associated with Oskar Schindler.
Select a few characters in the novel (aside from Schindler) and explore them in more detail.
Examine some of the major differences between the film version of Schindler’s List and the novel.
Away research topics:
Research the various superstitions involved with fairies and connect them to novel.
Examine the effects of the Potato Famine on the Irish population in mid 1800’s.
Examine Irish emigration to Newfoundland and Canada.
Baltimore’s Mansion
research topics:
Was the portrayal of Newfoundland culture a realistic one in Baltimore’s Mansion?
What role did regionalism play in Newfoundland’s 1945 referendum to join Canada?
Project Options
PAPER
Approximately 1000 words. Typed with: cover page, page numbers, double-spaced, suitable 12-14 font, APA in-text citations, Works Cited list. NOTE : students planning on attending University are recommended to write a paper
POWERPOINT/PREZI
Minimum of 20 slides. Appropriate visual design. APA In-text citations and Works Cited also expected. At least FIVE visuals expected. Does not need to be presented to class.
NOTE:
All research must be submitted with jot notes
All students will need to complete a proposal/outline.
Scoring scales for each project option will be reviewed soon.
Project due __________________________ . Be sure to bring draft work to your teacher!