English 5, Critical Thinking

4-6 pages
typed, double-spaced

You will be writing an argument essay. For review of writing arguments, please see chapter four in Writing Logically, Thinking Critically. You will be selecting a representation of gender or sexuality. Look to movies, films or magazines (please do not use advertisements, since we’ve already covered this ground). You will analyze your material(s) by explaining how it works, what cultural beliefs underlie it and what is its significance. You do not have to take a positive or negative stance regarding the material, but explain how the elements work together to have a particular effect on the audience. To write a successful argument about your chosen material, you will need to present clear insight and provide logical, specific evidence.

Treat the material you choose as a text and perform a close reading. Also, discuss how your subject fits into the big picture regarding gender roles or sexuality. I encourage you to use the articles we have read to support your claims, but it is not required. You may also use outside sources you discover on your own. Make sure to properly cite any articles/books you use.

For this essay, I expect:
clear, concise writing
a strong thesis statement
a title
properly cited references (if you choose to include sources)
proofreading

Avoid:
Contractions (don't, can't, it's, shouldn't)
Exclamation points
etc.
using clichés or colloquial language
repeating words or sentence structure

DAY CLASS:
Draft Workshop: 3/3 (bring 2 copies, plus the front page for my review)
Final draft due: 3/10

NIGHT CLASS:
Draft Workshop: 3/8 (bring 2 copies, plus the front page for my review)
Final draft due: 3/15