Queer Theory/Queer Lives, Fall 2003

Paper # 2

Due Tuesday November 18th

Assignment:

· Pick either an article or film that we have discussed in class since the midterm and write a critical or personal response to it. This needs to be at the least a three-page paper that engages an assigned text in some way.

· The purpose of this paper is for you to describe your reactions to an issue raised in the readings, and to integrate references to in-class and outside material in your discussion.  Describe and explain one or more of YOUR REACTIONS to the material.

· You will probably find this assignment most appealing if you choose a topic that either intrigued you a lot or troubled you.  BE SURE TO GIVE YOUR OWN CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE MATERIAL -- DO NOT MERELY SUMMARIZE THE IDEAS PRESENTED IN THE READINGS OR IN CLASS. 

Grades This paper is worth 15% of your final grade. You will be graded as followed.

· Integration of and critical response to the material

· Independent creative thinking

· Overall writing quality including references, citations and bibliography

· TIMELINESS

You can say anything you want, as long as you follow the guidelines.

Guidelines:
1. In the paper, demonstrate that you have thought independently and creatively about the readings, class discussions, and other material related to the topic you've chosen.  If you're having trouble getting started, here's a couple examples: a) If several points of view were presented on the issue, which do you find most/least favorable?  Why?  or, b) Do you agree or disagree with the points made in the readings? Why?

2. Make one or more specific references to assigned readings.

3. The paper should be typed and double-spaced with 1-inch margins.  Correct spelling and grammar is expected.

4. You must use citations correctly!  This means using quotes correctly when using text word-for-word, citing your source when paraphrasing someone else's idea, and in either case, providing the author's name, year published, and if a quote, the page number.  You can use any citation style (ASA, APA, MLA), as long as you are consistent.