AAS-33B essay

Humanities

Here is the topic of your essay. No OUTSIDE research is necessary; however, you must use the assigned readings and lectures in developing your essay. Your essay should be three (3) to four (4) type-written, double spaced in length with 1-inch margins, 12-point font and page numbering. Be sure to cite your sources (bibliography page does not count toward the 3-4 required pages). NO LATE PAPERS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

The essay will be evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Response to the prompt.
    1. Although the prompt has no single correct answer, the stronger responses uses the major historical/political developments and appropriate strategies, for example, definition, compare and contrast, etc.
  • Incorporates the readings.
    1. You should avoid direction quotation from the books. Instead, using your own words, summarize or paraphrase the materials but give reference to where you found the information, i.e. (Jones, 430). You should use more all the assigned books when appropriate.
  • Has a clear and complete thesis.
    1. A thesis is a sentence that describes the purpose of the essay. It provides statements about the subject and how you will develop your essay.
  • Organization and coherence.
    1. The essay is accomplished with a clear, logical, systematic series of paragraphs that supports the purpose of the essay.
  • Utilizes well-crafted sentences and paragraphs
    1. You should proof-read your essay for spelling, grammar, and syntax prior to submitting it.

Essay Topic

  • I am interested in your understanding and ability to evaluate historical events. Select two significant historical events that we have studied this semester that best exemplify the “best” and “worst” of America with respect to our struggle for democracy. Using them, illustrate how each event has helped shape our contemporary society. You must compare and contrast at least two different groups in your analysis (i.e. racial and minority groups, women, class, etc.)

The assignment is worth 40 points. It will be evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Effort = 15 points (meets the basic requirements)
  • Content= 20 points (clarity, critical analysis, synthesis, and well-thought out paper)
  • Grammar = 5 points (spelling, grammar, citations, etc.)