Topic: Rain Gardens for stormwater management
Style guide.
The assessment is to produce a popular scientific article, similar to the format seen in New Scientist, Scientific American, National Geographic, Time Magazine, or similar outlets. The article (a) must be written in an accessible style, (b) avoid the use of jargon and (c) is appealing to the informed, non-expert reader. The word limit (500 words) must be met. The article should include photos and/or figures with the appropriate acknowledgement of their source. References (best are peer-reviewed, high-impact journal papers) used throughout the article should be included on a separate page at the end of the article to demonstrate the
eadth of literature/website information underpinning the article.
Article structure and content
Title (max. 14 words): make sure you have a relevant, but catchy title - preferably one which will catch the reader’s eye.
Author: Include your name (and student number) on the front page.
Main text: The first paragraph acts as a hook for the reader and should, therefore, capture their imagination and get them interested in the subject. Set the scene - why is the story interesting/important/newsworthy
elevant? Make sure that you include some colourful images or maps in the main body of the article - look at similar articles that have been published elsewhere. Pay attention to size, number and positioning of these visuals. Make sure that each visual has a title/description (and, where appropriate, a credit). Also, make sure that you include relevant facts and figures which highlight the importance and potential impact on ecosystem functions and services (and humans). Don’t forget to pull it together with a finishing statement/paragraph, otherwise the article will just tail off. Remember to proof-read everything (ideally more than once) to provide a concise text without typos or other mistakes. Attention to detail, accuracy, a concise writing style and a complete reference list are very important in all scientific writing. These criteria, next to content and presentation, will be marked.
Please provide more photos!