DUE DATE: Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Instructions:

1. Read one article from the list below and write a 2-3 page critical review on your selection. Articles can be found on reserve in the Learning Resource Center or online on the Blackboard site (http://elearning.kctcs.edu). [KCTCS User ID and password required.]

CHOOSE ONE ARTICLE:

·         Anne Firor Scott, “The Myth of the Southern Lady”

·         Ira Berlin, “’I Will Be Heard,’: William Lloyd Garrison and the Struggle Against Slavery”

·         Benjamin Quarles, “Let My People Go: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad”

·         Stephen B. Oates, “The Ravages of War”

·         James M. McPherson, “Why the Confederacy Lost”

2. Your paper should include the following segments: 

SUMMARY: Summarize in your own words the major points and arguments the author has made to show that you have understood the material. Do not simply rehash the editor's comments introducing the article. Read the article and determine for yourself what the author's major themes are. Your essay should include an introduction in which you mention the author and article by name and provide the author’s thesis or point of view. You should place your summary in historical context; that is, what period of time does the author address? Click here for examples.

CRITICISM/ASSESSMENT: Evaluate the author's arguments, evidence, and presentation. Consider commenting on areas like these:

·         Objectivity: Is the author treating or her subject in an unbiased manner?

·         Organization: Is the article organized in an understandable fashion?

·         Thoroughness: Did the author cover the topic adequately?

·         Did the article increase your knowledge or understanding of the topic?

·         Suggestions for improving the article

3. With regard to format, your paper should:

·         be typed (using a standard 12- or 10-point font)

·         be double-spaced (not 2 ½ - or triple-spaced)

·         have one-inch margins (top, bottom, left, and right)

·         have a title page (including the article and author, your name, class, and date)

·         be 2 to 3 pages in length (not including the title page)

·         be stapled (DO NOT USE PLASTIC BINDERS OR FOLDERS)

Keep a photocopy or electronic copy of your work for your records.

Your grade will be based on both content and style. Your paper will comprise 10% of your final grade. 

Late papers will be penalized ten points (out of a total of 100) for each day they are late, including weekends. Papers will be accepted no later than one week after the due date.