Definition:
Reaction papers are short essays based on your readings, class lectures,
investigation, etc. You should formulate and describe these concepts
coherently and in a convincing manner. Make sure your paper reflects a
clear, coherent thought process and understanding of the topic, in
addition to a well-structured presentation. Use examples when possible,
but do not use them extensively, because you will not be able to include
all necessary information if you "waste" your space with too many
examples.
Requirements:
Each paper should
-
incorporate at least one reading
assigned in each week within that thematic grouping;
-
evidence clear comprehension of the
primary argument presented in each author’s work; and
-
draw connections between the readings and
the themes so that the paper is greater than the sum of its parts
REMEMBER! the
paper is NOT a simple summary of the readings but rather a comprehensive
analysis and critical engagement with the overarching themes, authors
and texts covered in that section and in the course as a whole.
Your paper should provide an introduction
with a clearly articulated
thesis
statement that outlines your main
position or argument. The substance of the paper is
critical analysis, which means
you should offer your opinion/reflection backed up by supporting
evidence from the readings and from class discussion. The paper should
end with concluding statements that address the areas and arguments you
have covered and link your conclusion to the opening statement.
Sources:
You can quote sources other than the
assigned readings. However, proper referencing is required both in the
body of your paper and in your works cited section.
Academic Integrity:
Format:
-
Length: min. 4, max. 5 pages each paper
-
follow the
MLA
style guidelines (see above),
-
number all pages, double space, and use
12-point Times New Roman font,
-
submit you paper electronically
(virus-free MS Word) using "safeassign
icon" of the
webCT site.
-
How does safeassign work?
Click here.
Topics:
-
Paper # 1.
How
postmodern discourse is produced compared to modernity (i.e.
objectivity / subjectivity) and what role power plays in the process
(postcoloniality is part of the postmodern – why?)
-
Paper #2:
What do
colonization and patriarchy have in common and how this is
manifested in Year of the Elelphant? Pls. include references
to most of the readings in your analysis.
-
Paper #3:
Paper based on the
oral presentation
Due:
-
Paper 1: February 25,
2009
-
Paper 2: April 15.
-
Paper 3: One week
after the oral presentation
-
Late papers will not be accepted.