Preparing an Abstract

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An abstract is a summary or synopsis of an article in a journal or magazine.  The purpose of preparing an abstract is to acquaint you with scientific literature and to expose you to current topics in biology.

Choosing an Article:
Articles must be chosen from science journals and may not be taken from the internet.  Journals from which articles may be chosen without prior teacher approval include:

• National Geographic (science articles only)

• Scientific American

Special Instructions:

• Articles to be abstracted must be at least two pages (text) in length.

• Articles must be chosen from journals published during the 12 months prior to the abstract due date.

• Articles must be on a topic being studied that semester.

• Work cited must be included at the top of the abstract page.

• Triple space between the citation & the start of your paper

• Abstracts must be typed and at least one and a half pages in length.

• One inch margins only are allowed

• Use font size 12 only and Times New Roman

• Paper should be single spaced, except between paragraphs where you double space

• An abstract folder with your name and period on the front should be kept for turning in your abstracts.  A copy of the article or the magazine should be placed in the front pocket of the folder and the abstract should be placed in the back pocket.

• Do not write your name on the abstract; your name should be written on the front of the abstract folder

    Click here  to view an example of an abstract

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