Essay #3 - Race and Diversity

Diversity and Difference -- Research Paper

Write a five to six page essay in which you explore one of the following topics. You must construct a specific and argumentative thesis statement that clearly states your own opinion. You should still utilize the analytical skills that you have been developing; in addition, you will use outside research to provide further evidence of your argument. Thus, your objective is primarily a paper involving close analysis and secondarily a research paper. Do not repeat any texts that you have used thus far in the course. You must use a text from Unit 3 of the course. (If you want to use a text from one of the other units, you must clear it with me first.)

• What existing myths or stereotypes is the text addressing? In what way does the text rewrite those myths/stereotypes?

• What are the tensions that exist between generations? What does a generation learn from the preceding one? How does a person’s culture affect the way s/he interacts with his/her family and/or parents?

• In what way has the dominant culture influenced and shaped other cultures? How do minorities adapt to the dominant culture (e.g. physical characteristics, language, ideology, etc.)?

• How do oppressed peoples feel empowered? What are their sources of strength?

• What are the tensions and difficulties involved with living in more than one culture? How are these cultures negotiated?

• Research a minimum of four sources not including encyclopedias, dictionaries, and other general resources.

• At least two sources must include historical information about the time and place in which each text is set (not necessarily when/where the text was written).

• At least two sources must be current (1999 or more recent).

• Include a bibliography with full citations (MLA format) for each source.

• Submit one copy of each resource with your paper.

• To continue refining the analytic skills.

• To focus your analysis on a specific topic and theme relating to many cultures.

• To consider the ways in which peoples negotiate assimilation and diversity.

• To incorporate researched materials as evidence to support your claims.

• All papers must be typed and double-spaced. Papers should have 1” margins on all sides and standard 12 pt. font should be used.

• The paper should include an informative and interesting title.

• Papers must be a minimum of five pages (not including the heading and title).

• The paper is due on Tuesday, March 4, 2003 and the revision is due on Thursday, March 6, 2003 in class. If you are more than 5 minutes late to class, your paper will be considered late as well.