The Abstract: A Model

Below is a model of the Abstract Assignment. Notice that it uses a hanging indent—just like a citation in your Exploratory Search. The abstract begins with a proper bibliographic citation and the summary description of the article begins right afterwards—it doesn’t go in a separate line or paragraph. Notice, too, that the subject of each sentence could be “The text . . .” But instead of repeating that noun phrase over and over, each sentence begins with a verb that would go with these words (they are bold-faced below). You don’t need to boldface the verbs in your abstract, but do attempt to use all 150 words available to you.

Jennifer Williams

Abstract 1

9 Feb. 2005

Kotulak, Ronald. “Report Hails Fetal Tissue Transplant Therapy found to Ease Parkinson’s and

May Battle Other Disorders.” Chicago Tribune 27 April 1995: 3. Provides

information about a particular case in which a man with Parkinson’s Disease was

healed by the use of fetal tissue. Claims that there is evidence which shows that

doctors can replace the circuitry in the brain that Parkinson’s destroys. Gives

examples of other diseases which can benefit from fetal tissue research. Presents

clinical definition of Parkinson’s Disease. Outlines the moral and ethical reasons

for people’s objections to fetal tissue research. Suggests that demand for fetal tissue

would easily outstrip supply because, currently, one transplant requires tissue form

many fetuses. Discusses four alternatives to fetal tissue research: 1) growing

numerous fetal brain cells from one donor; 2) treating Parkinson’s patients with a

dopamine-producing drugs; 3) replace human fetal tissue with cell cultures from

pigs; and 4) use genetic engineering techniques to alter skin cells in such a way that

they will make brain cells. Provides no references.