Methodological,+Empirical,+Theoretical+and+Practical+Contributions

Try to articulate these in formal, proposal-ready prose, starting with the rhetorical structures below. Note that the first three are the "intellectual merit" expected in NSF research; the last is the "broad impact" (in NSF terms).

This study will be based on data collected through participant observation, ethnographic interviews, analysis of archival and policy documents (or whatever), demonstrating how studies of x can build from.... Try here to say how your study will be methodologically //innovative.//.. and perhaps even experimental.
 * Methodological **

Focusing on x in the United States (or wherever), this study will contribute to the empirical record of ways...
 * Empirical **

This study will advance conceptualization of... The study will draw on and contribute to scholarly literatures that examine...
 * Conceptual/Theoretical **

Results of this study can help...
 * Practical **