Category: English

  • Understanding Cultural Appropriation: A Comprehensive Explanation

    In the Explaining a Concept Paper, you will simply want to explain a concept of your choice, using research to support your explanations/definitions.  This paper should be at least 4-6 pages long (a minimum of 1000-1500 words), it should include at least two sources, and it should accomplish the following:
    * Inform your particular audience about a specific subject.
    * Present information confidently and efficiently.
    * Use established information for support, as well as personal “evidence” (if applicable) such as short anecdotes and examples from your own experience, or the experience of others.
    * Maintain an informative tone (not an argumentative tone, as this is not an argumentative or persuasive paper). 
    IMPORTANT NOTE: Papers on the following topics will not be accepted:
    * abortion
    * capital punishment
    * euthanasia

  • Title: The Power of Context in Shaping Characters: An Analysis of [Author]’s [Title]

    Gather evidence: 
    Once you have made the topic your own, then it is time to gather evidence from the chapters, keeping in mind that this is only a 750 word essay, which may mean, you only have about 4-5 body paragraphs to present your evidence in—it is a good idea to gather more quotes at first, as you can always eliminate what you do not need for your argument/discussion.  
    Write a working thesis statement: 
    The working thesis statement stems from your close-critical prewriting about the essay topic, evidence gathering, and other ideas you create along the way. 
    Suggested Outline approach: 
    Introductory paragraph 
    Topic sentence—author’s full name, title of work, and a clause that situates the reader in and around the central idea that is in the essay. 
    Introduce the author—biographical information on the author. 
    Introduce the social/historical context(s) of the novel. 
    Introduce your character(s) that you will be interpreting or presenting in your body paragraphs. 
    Transition your reader to your thesis. 
    Write your Thesis—the last sentence of your introductory paragraph—you may wish to consider the what, how, and why, or, the author’s role (use of literary elements/devices) in influencing your reading/interpretation of the work.    
    BP1 (Body Paragraph 1) 
    Topic sentence—every body paragraph topic sentence needs to be its own idea or sub-idea of the main idea—your thesis. 
    Plot summary/context sentences. 
    Secondary source evidence 
    Primary source evidence or direct quote(s) 
    Analysis sentence. 
    Concluding sentence that wraps up the paragraph’s point—which is a subpoint of your main point—thesis.  
    BP2 
    Topic sentence— 
    similar pattern as above 
    BP3 
    Topic sentence 
    similar pattern as above 
    BP4 
    Topic sentence 
    similar pattern as above 
    BP5 
    Topic sentence 
    similar pattern as above 
    CP (Concluding paragraph) 
    Reminder: use effective and appropriate transitions: withing sentences and/or between paragraphs—transitions help to cut down on choppy flow of ideas—the reader should be able to read the essay, without having to stop to repair or make connections between your ideas.  

  • Title: Close Reading Critique of “The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health” In this close reading critique, we will be examining the article “The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health” by Sarah Smith, published in the Journal of

    Close reading is an in-depth critical look at a text to better understand it. For this assignment, you will be doing a close reading critique of one of your sources.
    Select one of the resources from your annotated bibliography that you are using in your research paper.
    Complete a close reading critique of the selected resource.
    Write a 500-to-750-word close reading critique of your source. Include or address the following questions in your critique:
    What are the main ideas of the text?
    What is the author’s viewpoint? Does the author advocate for or against something?
    Does the author use evidence to support their claims? For example, do they have any works cited?
    Where is the text from? Is it an article, book, or blog? Do you feel as if the text is from a reputable source? Why or why not?
    A minimum of one in-text citation and reference page that includes the source you are reviewing.

  • “Exploring Narration and Theme in Roddy Doyle’s “New Boy”: A Comparison and Contrast of the Short Story and Film Adaptation”

    You have read Roddy Doyle’s 2007 short story “New Boy,” Download “New Boy,”and you 
    have viewed the 2007 short film Links to an external site. of the same name, directed by
    Steph Green.
    LINK TO  Steph Green short film 
    https://www.kanopy.com/en/product/1088112 
    Roddy Doyle’s Version Added in Attatchments.  
    While a reader/viewer can expect some narrative consistency across media, filmmakers also make stylistic choices in their adaptations that might veer away from the original to leave their own “stamp” on the story. By identifying where the book and film are similar and different, viewers can analyze the filmmaker’s choices for themes.
    Assignment: In a three-page paper:
    Compare and/or contrast the narration of the short story and the film
    Explain how the filmmaker’s choices establish a theme in the film
    Elements of narration worth reviewing for similarities and differences:
    Three-act structure
    Open vs closed endings
    Causal narrative
    Diegesis
    Plot
    Narrator
    Restricted vs unrestricted narration
    Motifs
    Organization options:
    (Comparison only) Identify similarities in the narration of the short story and the film and speculate on a relevant theme
    (Contrast only) Identify differences in the narration of the short story and the film and speculate on a relevant theme
    (Comparison and contrast) Identify both similarities and differences in the narration of the short story and the film and speculate on a relevant theme
    Assignment-Specific Requirements:
    Minimum 3 pages (Works Cited page does not count)
    Use of specific, direct references to elements of both the short story and the film, either through direct quotations, paraphrases, or summaries
    Use of relevant narrative terminology, as appropriate (see readings in the Week 3 Module for a refresher)
    Properly formatted in MLA style, to include page formatting, parenthetical citations, and a works cited page
    Grading Criteria:
    Thoughtful organization of essay                                10 points
    Evaluation of similarities and/or differences              20 points
    Sufficient, relevant examples from story and film     30 points
    Identified theme                                                           10 points
    Appropriate use of narrative terminology                  20 points
    Proper MLA formatting, usage/mechanics                 10 points
    Total                                                                              100 points
    Sample outline for New Boy comparison and contrast essay
    Introduction:
    Introduce the concept of narration and its importance in both short story and film
    Identify New Boy as a short story with a film adaptation
    (Thesis) While the diegesis and plot structure of the film are faithful to the short story, the ending differs, establishing a slightly different theme.
    Body:
    (Paragraph 1) Compare the diegesis of the short story and the film
    (Paragraph 2) Compare the plot (three-act) structure of the short story and the film
    (Paragraph 3) Contrast the ending of the short story (open) with the film (closed)
    Conclusion:
    Reflect on the relevance of the similarities and differences between the short story and the film
    Theme is slightly different: film theme is more about childhood and growth than trauma and growth

  • “The Power of Rhetoric: A Rhetorical Analysis of Bill Gates’ Commencement Speech” Bill Gates, a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-founder of Microsoft, delivered a commencement address at Harvard University in 200

    write a formal well organized rhetorical analysis essay about Bill Gates’ Commencement speech/address
    Remember a rhetorical analysis analyzes a writer’s choices, stylistic devices, and organization; while focusing on how the writer was able to convey a central purpose. Your job as a writer is to understand how the choices the writer makes determine how the audience understands the writer’s purpose. Your essay should be in 3rd person POV and focus on the writer, Bill Gates.
    Questions to ask before you begin:
    1. Who is the audience? (specifically, not just NAU)
    2. What is his central purpose?
    3. What devices are used repeatedly throughout his speech? 
    4. What is the tone? What specific words amplify the tone of the speech?
    Your essay should incorporate all of the rhetorical elements discussed thus far: SOAPSTone, ethos, logos, pathos, etc.
    Your essay should use specific evidence (paraphrased or quoted) and follow MLA guidelines

  • “The Ethical Dilemma of Temptation: Analyzing Tom’s Actions in ‘Strong Temptations’” In the short story “Strong Temptations” by Flannery O’Connor, the main character Tom faces a moral dilemma

    Strong Temptations
    Journal 2
    Please write a 1 full page response to only one of the following prompts. Make sure you write 1
    FULL page. You may write more. It must be double spaced, size 12, MLA format, and Times
    New Roman font. Include an original title.
    1. What do you think about Tom’s actions? Are they fair, smart, or unfair? Use specific
    details from the story to support your thinking.

  • “Exploring Sinaloa: A Summer of Lasting Memories”

    I need to make this into a third person and add more specific details on some parts
    Lasting Memories
    The blazing sun high in the clear blue sky, on the streets of Culiacán, Sinaloa. As I stepped off the bus the heat hit me like a thick, warm blanket. It was my first visit to Sinaloa. I had spent the last few months planning this summer vacation. The vibrant culture, the beautiful landscapes, and the amazing food had all been talked to me by friends and family. My cousin Maria was waiting for me at the bus station. Her wide smile and sparkling eyes were a comforting sight in this unfamiliar place. We greeted, and she pulled me into a warm hug. We quickly grabbed my luggage and made our way to her car. As we drove through the streets I couldn’t help but look at the high rising buildings standing alongside structures, their colorful art telling stories of a rich history. Street vendors lined the sidewalks selling everything from fresh fruits to handmade crafts. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, honking cars, and the distant strains of mariachi music. Our first stop was the heart of the city, the Plaza de Armas. The plaza was alive with activity, families enjoying picnics, children chasing pigeons, and couples strolling hand in hand. Maria led me to a nearby food stall where we bought elotes, smothered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder. The first bite was a burst of flavors. The next few days were a bunch of experiences. We visited the historic cathedral, its towering spires reaching towards the sky, and explored the local markets. We attended a traditional dance performance where dancers in elaborate costumes swirled and twirled to the rhythm of lively music. The energy was infectious, and I found myself tapping my feet along with the beat. The highlight of my trip was the nearby beaches of Mazatlán. The golden sands stretched as far as the eye could see. The gentle waves lapped at our feet as we walked along the shore. We spent hours swimming in the warm, crystal clear waters. I even tried surfing, even though I spent more time falling off the board than riding the waves. In the evenings we would gather around a bonfire roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the night sky. One particular memory stands out vividly in my mind. Maria and I decided to hike up the hills surrounding Culiacán to catch the sunset. The climb was steep and challenging but the view from the top was worth every drop of sweat. As the sun dropped below the horizon and the sky exploded into an array of colors. As my time in Sinaloa drew to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences I had. The warmth and hospitality of the people, the richness of the culture, and the stunning natural beauty had all left an indelible mark on me. I knew that this summer vacation was not just a fleeting escape but a journey that had broadened my horizons and enriched my soul. My family had welcomed me with open arms and as I boarded the bus back home, I carried with me not just souvenirs but memories that would last a lifetime. The golden sunsets, the laughter shared with Maria, the flavors of the elotes. All these would remain in my heart. A reminder of a summer well spent in the vibrant land of Sinaloa.

  • “The Case for Guilt: Examining the Evidence Against the Accused”

    Students will choose a rhetorical position (guilty or innocent) and defend that position with their own reasons. They will develop those reasons by using logic, moral insight, and personal experience, and by paraphrasing information from their sources. An effective tone will be polite and mature and revealed by thoughtful language.
    Persuasive essay structure: 600-650 words, 5 paragraphs, with paraphrased use of article information.
    I choose the side she guilty, not innocence. See the attached file.

  • “Exploring Diversity, Exclusion, and Inclusion: A Scholarly Perspective”

    Week Three Course Blog Project
    Throughout this course you will read scholarly work on questions of diversity, exclusion and inclusion. You will write a weekly blog reflecting upon those issues, but rather than offering an unsubstantiated opinion on these matters, you’ll be expected to offer a unique but informed opinion supported by scholarly research and empirical evidence.
    You will have freedom to choose the topic and the particular angle of the issue as you wish to explore it, but there are some clear parameters you’ll need to follow.
    Each blog entry must have:
    Minimum 500 words (15% penalty for falling short of the word count)
    1 citation from academic source materials read that week in class. This must be cited with a page number and author. Sources may not be reused week-to-week.
    1 citation of an academic source (a relevant peer-reviewed article) from outside of class. Sources may not be reused week-to-week.
    1 citation of a news media article relevant to the topic.
    At least 1 audio or visual element that adds substantial content to support your argument. This could be a link to a video, pictures, etc.
    You’ll complete your blog each week by no later than 5pm Pacific Time, Thursday. In addition to your weekly discussion responses, please respond to at least two of your classmates’ blogs, reflecting upon what they’ve done, and at a minimum of 250 words per response. Your blog entry and responses to classmates will be graded each week.