Below is a sample criminal justice term paper in MLA titled: “Police Accountability and Use of Force.” This example is intended to help high school and college students write better term papers.
MLA Term Paper
MLA Term Paper Outline: Police Accountability and Use of Force
Here is the outline for this sample term paper:
- Title Page (MLA – Not on a separate page)
- Your name
- Course code and name
- Instructor’s name and title
- Date of submission
- The title of the term paper (centered)
- Introduction
- Background and context of the issue
- Importance of police accountability in society
- Purpose of the term paper
- Thesis statement
- Use of Force in Policing
- Definition and types of force used by law enforcement
- Factors influencing the use of force
- Historical perspective on the use of force in policing
- Police Accountability Mechanisms
- Overview of accountability mechanisms (internal and external)
- Internal affairs units and their role
- External oversight bodies (e.g., civilian review boards)
- Legal and ethical standards governing police conduct
- Issues and Challenges
- Incidents of excessive force and their consequences
- Racial disparities in the use of force
- Resistance to accountability measures within law enforcement
- Public perception and trust in law enforcement
- Case Studies
- Analyze specific cases or incidents involving police use of force
- Examine the response of accountability mechanisms
- Discuss the outcomes and public reactions
- Reform Efforts
- Discuss recent efforts and reforms aimed at improving police accountability
- Evaluate the impact of body-worn cameras and de-escalation training
- Analyze proposed legislative changes and their potential effects
- International Perspectives
- Compare police accountability and use of force issues in other countries
- Highlight successful models and practices from around the world
- Future Directions
- Propose recommendations for improving police accountability
- Discuss the role of community policing and community engagement
- Consider the evolving landscape of law enforcement and technology
- Conclusion
- Summarize key findings and insights
- Reiterate the importance of police accountability in modern society
- Highlight the ongoing nature of this complex issue
- References (MLA)
- Cite all sources used in the term paper in Modern Language Association (MLA) citation style.
- Follow specific guidelines provided in your instructions.
This outline provides a structured framework for your term paper on police accountability and the use of force. You can expand each section with research, analysis, and relevant examples to create a comprehensive and well-organized paper.
