Business Question

Length

2 to 3 pages, double-spaced (excluding title page and reference list)

Font & Margins

12-point Arial or Times New Roman, 1-inch margins

Article Selection

Choose one article from the approved HBR list below. You must select a different article for each submission.

Sources Required

Minimum of 2 citations: (1) the assigned HBR article and (2) the course textbook. Additional sources are welcome but not required.

Citation Style

APA format required for all in-text citations and the reference list

Submissions

Paper 1 and Paper 2 instructor will announce due dates for each

File Format

Submit as a Word document or PDF via the course LMS

Part 1 Introduction (10 points)

Open your paper by orienting the reader to the article and its context:

Part 2 Analysis & Application (50 points)

This is the heart of your paper and carries the most weight. You must:

Part 3 Critical Evaluation (30 points)

Evaluate the article on its merits as a piece of professional scholarship:

Part 4 Conclusion & Takeaways (10 points)

Close your paper with a forward-looking, practical synthesis:

Part 1: Introduction

(10 pts)

10

Clear, well-written introduction that accurately identifies the article, establishes its relevance to OB, and delivers a sharp, focused summary.

Introduction is adequate and covers the basics, but lacks depth, clarity, or a strong sense of why the topic matters.

Introduction is present but underdeveloped key details are missing or the summary is vague.

Introduction is weak, inaccurate, or missing. Reader cannot identify the article or its purpose.

Part 2: Analysis & Application

(50 pts)

50

Identifies and accurately explains two or more OB concepts from the textbook. Makes specific, insightful connections to the article. Real-world examples are relevant and well-developed. Demonstrates strong critical thinking throughout.

Two OB concepts identified and connected to the article. Examples are present but may not be fully developed. Analysis is solid but stops short of deeper insight.

One concept addressed meaningfully, or two included but with shallow connections. Examples are generic or weakly tied to the argument. Limited evidence of critical thinking.

OB concepts are absent, misidentified, or misapplied. Little to no connection to the textbook. Analysis is superficial or missing.

Part 3: Critical Evaluation

(30 pts)

30

Thoughtful, well-supported critique that identifies specific strengths and weaknesses of the article. Considers alternative perspectives or limitations with nuance and intellectual honesty.

Evaluation addresses strengths and weaknesses but lacks depth in one area. Alternative perspectives are acknowledged but not fully explored.

Basic assessment is present but mostly descriptive. Strengths or weaknesses are mentioned without substantive analysis. Alternative perspectives are absent.

Little to no evaluation of the article’s merits. Response is either entirely positive, entirely negative, or simply a restatement of content.

Part 4: Conclusion & Takeaways

(10 pts)

10

Concise, insightful conclusion that synthesizes key learning, offers a specific and actionable recommendation, and connects the article to the student’s own leadership development.

Conclusion is present and covers the key components. Recommendations exist but may lack specificity or a personal leadership connection.

Conclusion is brief or generic. Recommendations are vague or formulaic. Personal reflection is absent or underdeveloped.

No meaningful conclusion. Paper ends abruptly or without synthesis, recommendations, or reflection.

A Note on Quality Over Length

The page range is a guideline, not a finish line. A paper that reaches 3 pages by repeating the same idea is worth less than one that makes a sharp, well-supported argument in 2. Depth of analysis, specificity of examples, and quality of engagement with the textbook will always matter more than word count. Write with intention.