Policy Memo (750 words minimum)

A policy memo is an
instrument used to provide analysis and recommendations for a particular
policy situation or problem.These recommendations are used by policy
makers in the policy making process to determine how to confront policy
issues.A well-written policy memo is a concise distillation of research
and recommendations about an issue or policy that could serve as a guide
for your target audience.Here are some basic guidelines to completing
the project:

1). Read current news and find a “state or local” level
problem or issue that is aligned with your interests (Examples include
Public School Financing, Healthcare, Community Policing, Criminal
Justice Reform, etc.).Do additional research using relevant books,
journals and websites as necessary (you should have at least three collegiate level sources).

2).
In addition, you should use MLA citations in the body of the paper to
develop your argument (see the example memo provided in D2L).Absolutely no plagiarism will be tolerated in this class.This is a short writing assignment, so avoid long quotes and quoting general material.

3). Each memo should consist of 750-1000 words (2-3 pages) with

one-inch margins (in #12-font size).Tightly organized policy memos with a

clear message have a better chance of influencing others.

4). Paragraphs should be single-spaced.Proofread carefully.Do not distract your audience from the content of your memo with poor spelling or grammar.

5).
You can use any standard layout for your memo, including the use of
bullet points or numbering to highlight or organize information.However,
make sure you address your audience at the top of the page.See the
example memo in D2L for a suggested layout.

Here is a brief suggested memo guideline based on the Policy Making Process:

Problem Identification-This
is the first step in the policy making process.In this step you will
identify a social or governmental problem that needs to be addressed or
is not being addressed adequately by governmental actors or
institutions.
Policy Formulation-
This is the second stage of policy making.This is the stage where you
will complete your research of the problem you have identified and come
up with recommendations to the problem identified.
Implementation-
In this stage of the policy making process you should select a
government agency or actor to report your memo to (Governor, Executive
department, legislative member etc.) and address your recommendations to
them.Also, at this stage policies are put into effect.
Evaluation-
Is the last-policy making stage.In this step, policy makers evaluate
policies and make adjustments if necessary.While you cannot evaluate
your recommendations, you can write about your expectations.