FINAL PAPER ASSIGNMENT
California History
Fall 2013
(Papers should be .doc, .docx, .rtf or .odt format--It also helps me to title the paper something like "last_name_h100g_paper2")
Write an approximately 3000-4000 word (10-14 page) critical essay on any
of the readings and based on your in-class presentation. The essay should use at least two works, one from the class required reading and the second one on a related topic that you have found. The second book or articles must be approved by me before you present and you must meet with me after your presentation.
What is a critical essay?
A critical essay evaluates the argument or arguments of authors
other than yourself. It is not a narrative which reconstructs the
same story the author tells. Rather it analyzes the story presented
to decide if and in what ways it is worthwhile.
Be sure to consider the big questions the authors addresses.
Evaluate their arguments carefully. Some questions you can consider: Do they make sense? Are
there alternate explanations which are more reasonable or likely?
Does the evidence support their position? Is the argument provocative or compelling?
Do they get to the heart of the issues? Do they ignore important
problems or evidence? Ultimately are you convinced?
There are an infinite number of ways to approach a critical essay.
It is generally easier to find fault with an author than agree with them.
However, you can take a stance in support of a position. In that
case you would suggest ways in which their work could be amplified or issues
they had not considered which nevertheless lend weight to their overall
position. Whichever approach you take, consider the argument it self.
It will be impossible in this paper to consider all aspects of the
book and article. Rather concentrate on only a few particular examples.
Fully taking apart a small piece is better than shallowly treating many. Nonetheless, the strongest essays will also address the big issues of the work.
Finally, a key purpose of a critical essay is to place an argument in a larger discussion.
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