1)Introduce your topic. What is the brief history of the topic? How/when did it enter the policy debate? Why is it an important topic (aka why should I keep reading)? Should be answered in at least 1-2 paragraphs.

2)What is the current status of your topic in the United States? Are there current regulations, incentives, or policies that cover your topic? What is the current budget situation for your topic? Be very specific here and discuss the entire scope of your topic (that is why it is important to narrow your topic as specific as possible). Should be answered in at least 2-3 paragraphs.

3)What is the current debate surrounding your topic? What do the supporters argue? What do the opponents argue? How does this debate impact policy outcomes? How do outside groups influence the current debate (introduce both sides and how money plays a role)? Hint: use open secrets Should be answered in at least 4 paragraphs.

4)Based on the current political climate where do you see this area in the future? How will it evolve during the Trump administration? Is it on the Congressional radar? Should be answered in at least 3-4 paragraphs.

5)Conclusion – tie it all together in one paragraph. Why is this important and what did you learn completing this assignment?

6)Cite references and sources.