For this paper, you will be expected to plan and write a response to one of the readings from this module using one of the prompts below. You should submit this paper via Turnitin. To do so, click on the “Paper 1 link.
Before you begin, you should view the Essay Rubric in the Course Resources section. The goal of this class is to teach college-level writing conventions, which may require some students to move beyond previously taught writing models, like the 5-paragraph essay format. There are many significant weaknesses to this model and it is not adequate at this level. Some aspects of this formula should be particularly noted. It is not desirable to have a thesis statement that presents the ideas of your body paragraphs. This “A + B + C” thesis always sounds forced and is overly simplistic. It also contributes to the next major issue, which is a lack of real transitions between body paragraphs. Your body paragraphs need to have clear relationships between them–in the 5-paragraph model, this is usually not the case, but instead, the paragraphs read more like a list. You can often see this in the choice of transition words–“First, Second, and Finally”. There is no relationship here but the order in which they come. The final major issue with the 5-paragraph model is the summary conclusion. The conclusion is a vital space that can engage the reader in new and unique ways. By simply summarizing points from your essay or restating the thesis, you will disengage the reader’s attention and add nothing to your paper.
There is no one, single way to approach a paper, or one size or shape. Therefore we are not looking for a particular number of paragraphs (although to prepare you for the exit essay, you should have at least 5) or a particular word count. If you look at the rubric, you will see what we want. First, you should have a strong introduction, which introduces the topic and identifies the paper’s direction. Next, there should be quality support, which offers specific details that are well organized and thoughtful. Finally, you will need a conclusion that challenges the reader and adds to the paper. This should be done with clear and concise writing. Think outside of formulas and focus on being as effective as you can be.
Please choose a prompt based on one of the Module 1 readings. Take careful note of what the prompt is asking, and be sure that you are directly addressing the question at hand.
For “A Trifling Media” answer the following:
In the article, Smiler criticizes the media messages that encourage men’s “trifling” behavior. In what other ways do you think media encourage behaviors that you feel are negative?
