English 1301 – Fall 2020
Major Essay #4 – Collaborating for Critical Thinking
Collaborative Essay & Presentation / Explore the Meaning(s) of ____________)
Essay Due: – Wednesday, November 11 – Submit via BlackBoard by 11:59 p.m.
Presentations begin November 10, 2020
Purpose: to interpret and inform:
For this assignment, students will choose a topic of their own liking to convey its meaning(s). Essay projects must meet the following criteria:
Use of third person point of view only
The essay must include a strong thesis statement
Creative title
Use many examples/details to build logical, effective body paragraphs
Use of appropriate transitions
Use of 4 – 5 credible sources – ONE source must be from a database
Proper use of MLA format
8 to 10 pages
Well organized
Avoid 2nd person point of view (you, your, yours, yourself, yourselves) at all times
Before beginning this project, consider a group may want to explore a topic in psychology, communication, history, sociology. Consider abstract topics such as love, beauty, life or a specific law. Consider words such as, cheesy, forgiveness, capping or even an ‘ism’… racism, communism, socialism or organizations: Black Lives Matter, Neo-Nazis, White Nationalists, Preppers, Gen Z, Gen X, boomers, motherhood, etc.
Organization of the essay must include a solid introduction, body paragraphs and a conclusion. One of the body paragraphs must address any issues or other contrasting points about students’ pitch subject. Be selective in the details chosen to include in the body paragraphs.
The essay must be in MLA format: double spaced, 1” margins, a header with required information, student last names with a page number in the upper right hand corner, and Times New Roman font at 12 point in size throughout. Do not do fancy lettering and/or designs with the title. Only use appropriate initial capitalization in the title. Do not include a title page.
The presentation element of this project should be creative and highly effective. Remember in presenting the meaning(s) of, students need to go beyond mere Webster definitions, but should include visuals that accompany the presentation of meaning(s). Show to inform your audience-readers. Criteria for this part of the project will be graded on the following:
Topic
A short Powerpoint, Prezi or video to highlight the written project
Group collaboration
Organization
How well supported the meaning(s) comes off to the audience
Each group has between 8 to 10 minutes to present. Peer-Audience should be prepared to ask questions, offer criticism, comments, suggestions, and opinions.
Mostly, have fun!! Post in your Wix accounts!
