Assignment & Important Dates

Reading Journal - Assignment Sheet

In order to ensure an understanding of course concepts, theories, and topics, students will be required to write up daily reading logs. Daily reading logs should be typed, 12 pt. font, and not to exceed two (2) double-spaced pages. Every class period you will chose one of the days readings to complete and submit for your journal. These writing assignments are designed to assist you in articulating the main ideas an assigned text introduces. To motivate classroom discussions, please be ready to share what you have written during class lectures. This will count towards your participation grade. Completing these writing exercises will assist you in developing a fuller understanding of course content and better prepare Week 16 Dialogues. Consequently, students will enhance academic-level reading and writing skills.
Every two-three weeks, I will grade one random entry from the readings for that time period. The graded entry will be worth up to 25 points, for a total of 150 points (6 entries) at the end of the semester. Although I will not read and grade the additional entries, they will still be worth up to 5 points each for a total of 100 points at the end of the semester. The maximum score for the reading summaries is 250 points, or 50% of your final grade.
Example Reading Journal:
Your Name:______________________ & Date:__________ Title: __________________________
Author(s): _______________________
Analysis of the Article – Critical Thinking
1. A synopsis (summary) of the author’s thesis and argument. Summarize the main points and supporting arguments from one article/chapter from that day’s readings (Use quoted material from the text, when appropriate, to give emphasis to the author’s points. Then, explain why this material is significant.).
2. An analysis of the reading connecting previously covered course materials. How convincing were the arguments and why? How does the author convince you? How and why is the article/chapter credible?
3. A personal reflection detailing the importance of that week’s acquired knowledge to
you and/or society.
Questions For Your Co-Researchers (Class Peers)
Write a minimum of three critical questions for class dialogues, for future reference, or for framing a paper/project:
1 ___________________________________
2 ___________________________________
3 ___________________________________
List and define important terms and/or concepts encountered in this reading: 1 ___________________________________
2. ___________________________________
3 ___________________________________

Critical Film Analysis - Assignment Sheet

Final Project (Week 15 'the week we make')