The research paper has to be written about the book:
Patterns for College Writing: A Rhetorical Reader and Guide, 14th Edition (Required)
ISBN: 978-1-319-05664-3

Also, the Research Paper:  Each student must submit a typewritten, double-spaced research paper, which will consist of approximately 5-7 pages of text, in addition to a Works Cited page, presenting an original argumentation not already examined in a previous paper.  The topic may be chosen from the textbook, or it may be chosen freely by the student (and cleared with me).  A minimum of four sources must be used.