A term paper can be defined as a lengthy essay based on course material or a student-elected topic. Since these papers are usually specific to a single course or semester, the word "term" is used to describe them.
A term paper has two purposes. The student should demonstrate an understanding of the material as well as the an ability to communicate that understanding effectively.
Writing term papers gives students practical experience in writing at length. Communicating thoughts and ideas through the written word is a necessary skill in any profession.
In addition to the immediate effects on a student's course grade and grade point average, a term paper is an exercise in communication. Skills learned from writing term papers will be valuable when searching for or advancing in a career.
Many term papers are available for purchase on websites aimed at college students. Although outsourcing or buying ready-made work may seem easier than doing the job yourself, plagiarism is grounds for course failure or, in some cases, expulsion. If a student can find a paper online for purchase, odds are that the professor can too.