You will be reading a book related to this class and writing an essay based on what you have learned. The purpose is to expose you to the subject a deeper level and allow you to explore a part of it of your choice at a deeper level. The essay should be written with normal font size and be double-spaced. The essay should be 4 to 6 pages long.
Time Frame
Book Selection: October 16/17. Book does not need to be purchased, just selected. If you wish to select a book not on the list, this would be the time to let Mr. Hairgrove know so that he can approve it.
Book Read: November 19/20. We will be discussing them in class and discussing directions to proceed for the essay.
Outline and Thesis Statement: December 3/4. Come to class with an outline and a thesis statement so that you can get peer feedback. The outline does not need to have great depth but should demonstrate that you know what your direction should be for your essay.
Essay Due: December 17/18 Rubric
Introduction
Well-developed introduction with an effective thesis statement. Introduction should provide a background the book/subject while explaining its importance. The thesis statement should make an argumentative statement based on an analysis of the book.
___/5
Effective Structure
In addition to an introduction, the essay should have well-developed paragraphs with a clear conclusion paragraph. Each paragraph should have clear structure. The conclusion paragraph should summarize major points of the essay and apply it to the reader.
___/15
Book Analysis
A section the essay should deal with the book directly by summarizing the book and analyzing it. You should reflect on what the book has taught you and what you think of the book. Your analysis should delve into the books strengths and weaknesses.
Another section of your essay should connect what you learned in the book to the class. This is the section that should most specifically connect to the argumentative thesis. Apply what you have learned from the book to make a statement about a country the class analyzes or a theme in comparative politics.
___/15
Grammar and Spelling
Reread your work carefully to eliminate errors. The essay should be free of spelling or punctuation errors. Sentences should have fluency and not have grammatical errors.