Report Research Paper:
* Purpose: To inform the reader about a topic by presenting factual information and findings objectively. It summarizes existing knowledge and research on a subject without taking a specific stance. Think of it as a comprehensive overview.
* Structure: Typically follows a straightforward structure: introduction (defining the topic), body (presenting findings and evidence from various sources, organized thematically or chronologically), and conclusion (summarizing key findings). It might include data, statistics, and quotes to support the presented information, but avoids personal opinions or subjective interpretations.
* Focus: Presenting objective facts and data. Neutrality is key.
* Examples: A scientific report on the effects of climate change, a market research report on consumer preferences, a literature review summarizing existing research on a particular disease.
Argumentative Research Paper:
* Purpose: To persuade the reader to accept a particular viewpoint or argument on a debatable topic. It presents evidence and reasoning to support a specific thesis statement.
* Structure: Includes an introduction (presenting the thesis statement), body (presenting arguments supported by evidence, addressing counterarguments), and conclusion (re-stating the thesis and summarizing the main points). It uses logical reasoning, evidence, and rhetorical strategies to build a case.
* Focus: Persuading the reader through the presentation of a reasoned argument and supporting evidence.
* Examples: An essay arguing for stricter gun control laws, a paper debating the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, a critical analysis of a literary work presenting a specific interpretation.
In short: A report *presents* information; an argumentative paper *persuades* with information. Both require research, but the *goal* of the research and the way the information is presented differ significantly. An argumentative paper will use evidence to support its claim, whereas a report simply presents the evidence without explicitly advocating for a specific conclusion.