Task Writing a Research Paper
In this activity, you will write a research paper using word processing software. You will research analog and digital signals and compare them. You’ll look for information from credible sources and summarize your work in a paper. Follow the links provided throughout the activity. They will help you plan and research your paper. This guide about the research process provides a helpful overview of the steps you should take.

Part A
In your paper, you will compare and contrast analog and digital signals to determine which is more reliable for encoding and transmitting information. You’ll compare these features:

signal shape
numerical values for signal measurements
amount of data that can be transmitted
energy requirements
privacy and security (ability of the signal to be encoded in a secret code)
clarity of signal
In the space provided, write down what you already know about any of these features. If you’re not sure, write down questions you might have about the features.

Part B
When writing a scientific paper, look for the most credible sources. Science doesn’t show bias, but we humans tend to show bias. There are sites and articles that provide facts without proper scientific evidence. Avoid using information from such sites. You must be able to identify reliable sites so the data in your paper is credible.

Use sources that end in .gov (government sites), such as OSTI. gov. They are reliable sources. You can also use sites ending in .edu. They can be deemed trustworthy, but sometimes the information is written by students rather than scientists. Always find out who the author of the article is before proceeding. Some .org and .com sites are credible, but you need to analyze the contents to verify their authenticity. As you review a source, always try to answer these questions:

Who authored the document?
Is this person a scientist or an engineer?
What is the purpose of the document?
Does the document state facts that can be proven by evidence?
Does the document contain opinions?
When was the document written?
Do other credible sources support the statements in this document?
Find some credible websites, and note the information they contain. Write down two or three sources you’ll use for your paper, and cite them using MLA (Modern Language Association) citation methods. Write one or two sentences stating how the source will help you.

Part C
In a separate location, take notes from the sources you’ve identified. The notes will provide details for your paper. While taking notes, you may want to use these reading strategies. Use these sources if you find them helpful:

Comparing Analog and Digital Signals

Effect of Noise on Signals

Digital Signal Processing

Using your notes, compare the features of analog and digital signals in the table provided. Include one to three points for each feature and type of signal.

Part D
Create an outline to organize your paper. Write the outline for your paper in the space provided. Following these guidelines for writing a five-paragraph essay is a good idea. Be sure to account for the claim you’re making about the security and reliability of analog and digital signals in your introduction, and include a works cited page at the end.

Remember, that you just need to structure your paper now. You’re not creating the final paper yet.

Part E
Images help to convey information that might sometimes be very complex if explained in words. Images also simplify certain explanations. List one or two picture resources that you wish to use in your paper. Write one to two sentences explaining what the image shows and where you obtained it.

Part F
Using your outline and the materials you’ve gathered, write a 250- to 500-word paper using word processing software. Be sure to proofread and revise your writing to catch any errors in grammar, spelling, logic, or organization. Add a works cited page at the end to give credit to your sources. Submit your completed paper and this activity to your teacher for evaluation.