Final Project

Final Assignment: Multimedia Essay (200 points)

Group Assignment

Presentation/Reflection Date (December 14)

“The truth about ______”

Purpose:

The purposes of this assignment are to help you gain experience in making presentations, in working within a group situation and in exploring the effectiveness of images as a part of persuasion.

The Assignment:

Each group will be expected to present a 10- to 12-minute visual definition essay centered upon the phrase, "The truth about _____" You will want to spend some time within your group discussing with each other the various themes and subjects that we have encountered so far in this class, or one that you decide on that we haven’t yet talked about (Fast Food/Diet in America, A specific musical genre, Total Equality Among Races AND Genders, etc.)

Together, as a group, you need to arrive at a "working definition" of the subject/word/phrase that you choose to explain, together, what you think it means, or should mean (this definition can be as long or as short as you want it to be) AS A COLLECTIVE GROUP. Once you have arrived at a working definition [which is also an argument, by the way], you will want to begin thinking about different ways you might present your definition to the class in a multimedia format [through images, text, and video clips and sound].

The Presentation (Group) - 100 points:

A multi-modal presentation is one that involves more than one method (or mode) of presentation. I do expect it to incorporate at least two of the three main modes: text [written and spoken], images, and sound [sound bytes and/or video clips].

Your presentation must be made using either PowerPoint or some type of video/DVD/movie-making software.

Remember that creativity is always rewarded.  Consider typed words, digital photographs, hands-on interaction with the class, a slideshow with music, posters, etc.  Consider appealing to all of our senses. Pay close attention to design elements – how images and words are visually presented, how fonts are used, how sounds are used.  All of these design techniques will combine to express your abstract word through imagery. Your goal is to communicate what your group feels the phrase, "the truth of _____," means.  If you have started this project with wildly disparate views, you must reconcile that disparity in some way and reach a consensus.

EACH STUDENT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR 5 SLIDES

PRESENTATION MUST CONTAIN ALL PARTS OF A FUNCTIONAL ESSAY:

(Intro/Thesis, Body Pargaraphs, Counterargument, Conclusion Paragraph)

Self-Reflection (Individual) - 100 points: In 2-3 brief pages, describe the process you followed to develop your part argument through images. Think about whether you thought it was challenging or simple once you actually started setting up what you were trying to “say.” Did images you find affect how you felt about the subject? Also, use this paper to explain if you felt like you had to ¨compromise¨ when you came to an agreement on your presentations main argument. It’s ok to have differing opinions, but it’s more important to learn how to work amicably with one another and make decisions as a group.

Use this time to also make a work cited of the different images/sounds/videos that you used, and where you got them from.

Some tips:

The more controversial your topic is, the more fun it will be be to develop an argument around it, so don’t be afraid to explore topics that seem “intense.”

Try to work out group conflicts without my influence.  Part of this assignment is to learn how to work effectively within a group situation. As most of you are already aware, a large part of your college career and your life experience after college will involve working in groups.

If you want to save your powerpoint / any format presentation to a flash drive, that’s a good idea, but I’m fine with you just emailing your final product. Check with me ahead of time about the method of presentation you want to use, so that I can have all the equipment you need in the class during the final exam period. Make sure that your presentation is saved in more than one way and place.

Final Due Date:

December 14, 2016

6:45-10

Quiz Questions from last week, and Zizek Think-Piece

Hey Guys,

Here are the questions from last week that everyone answered in their Notebooks last week:

1. What does Billy Dream that he is when he is high on Morphine?

2. How does the scene with the punched prisoner mimic a scene with the Trafalmadorians? Specifically, what words are exchanged that are similar?

3. While Billy is talking with Valencia in the hospital, what does she talk about that reveals something about her personality? What does it reveal about her?

4. In Chapter 5, at which two points does he insert himself? The author, not Billy Pilgrim, but Vonnegut?

5. There's time travel, and there's the alien abduction. Billy comes unstuck in time in 1944 (in the snow with Weary), and then abducted in 1967 (the night of his daughter's wedding). Why are these seperate events? What function does time travel have, that the abduction does not?

Answer these in full short responses, in your notebook.

*****

Also, since I'm not sure if it's a good idea for me to distribute incendiary material, I'm going to attach the Zizek article that I mentioned in class that helped me feel better about the current state of things in America. Plus I think it is a good think piece about a very real concern today.

http://inthesetimes.com/features/zizek_clinton_trump_lesser_evil.html

Homework for Week 10 and Week 11 EDIT!!!!!!!

Hey Class,

Here's a brief review about the Homework that's due on Wednesday:

1. Continue Reading "SH5" through chapter 7

2. Thesis Statement, AND TYPED  outline of your argument details - your Paragraph Topics

3. READ TWO ARTICLES ASSIGNED FOR ESSAY # 3

I know you all know what that looks like, but here's link to a good example:

HERE IS AN EXAMPLE

See you guys weds!!!

-

Essay #3 Prompt

Hey Guys,

Here is the prompt for Essay #3:

Essay #3 will be based on the novel Slaughterhouse Five and THREE articles: "How America's Leading Science Fiction Authors Are Shaping Your Future," "Changing Memories to Treat PTSD," and one essay or piece of research that YOU must find yourself. I don't want a google article, so use the Library database.

Slaughterhouse Five tells the realistic story of Billy Pilgrim's World War Two experiences, juxtaposed with the science fiction elements of time-travel and alien abduction. How does Vonnegut use the combination of these two elements to illustrate the effects of war-time trauma on soldiers? How is Billy trying (or not trying) to deal with his trauma? Furthermore, what comment is the novel making on our "choices" as people, or members of our society?

- Answer all questions clearly and directly.
- Use direct quotes from the novel and the three articles
- You may also include personal experience and observations as evidence if they are relevant.

Final Draft Due Thursday,
November 23, 2016

- 4.5 - 7 pages
- Use proper MLA format
- Include extensive quotes (At least 2 quotes per paragraph) and paraphrases from the three sources
- Include a correctly formatted works cited page

ESSAYS for HW, and for use in Essay #3

Hey Guys,

Here are a couple of essays that you are going to read over the weekend, annotate, and use as source material as you build your argument for essay #3.


"Changing Memories to Treat PTSD" by Cari Romm

"How Americas Leading Science Fiction Authors are Shaping Your Future" by Eileen Gunn

We'll talk about them in class a little today, and then I'll post some discussion questions to help you as you read through the articles.

See you soon!!!

HW for Week 7

Hey Class, so here is the Homework for week 7:

1. Make sure to read chapter 5 of Slaughterhouse 5. It's only one chapter, but its a beefy one, and it's a really important one for the story.

2. Based on the prompt from the previous post, choose an injustice (whichever you feel the most drawn to) and think about what subject you want to focus on. Then, for the sake of preparation for Weds in class essay, write a thesis statement (detail an "injustice", and tell me why it is a problem). Or don't, but the draft you write in class NEEDS A CLEAR THESIS STATEMENT so form one over the weekend

- It would be wise of you to also make a brief outline of your argument's paragraphs so that you have a skeleton of what you want your essay to consist of. Pre-writing will not be required for this essay, although it would definitely influence my grading of your paper if you chose to draft some and turned them in with the final product

THEN, find a newspaper article or an essay or an excerpt from a book that discusses your "injustice." You are going to be required to use references/quotes from the article on Weds, so make sure you find an article that YOU CAN PRINT UP or PHOTOCOPY. You need to be able to reference the article or essay or book excerpt while writing the essay, so bring the article to class. I will be checking to make sure you printed it out and brought it Weds, and it will be part of the overall grade, so make it happen. 

So the short version of your hw this week:
1. Read
2. Write a thesis for your In Class essay and Print an Article or Essay of some sort to reference in said essay.

Send me your questions
David

In Class Essay (Essay #2) Prompt

Essay #2 Prompt (in class):

There are social injustices everywhere in today’s culture, and it is very hard to look past any of them. That said, some injustices are still swept under the rug and ignored by mainstream media, or skewed in a way that may make the idea unimportant. Think of injustices such as (but not limited to) sexism, racism, ageism, bullying, religious intolerance, political intolerance, or anything else that you find personal stake in and that you think is worthy of a wider discussion. Argue why you think it is an important issue, and talk about what exactly needs to change to help the issue see more light so it can have a chance at someday being diffused. Be as specific as possible. Be as detailed as possible. Be as angry as you like.

Make sure your essay is no less than than two and half full double spaced pages. Essay must have a clear introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me via email, talk to me to set up an appointment for office hours, or flag me down if you see me power walking out of the parking lot and ask me a question then.

*****

I will specify what your hw is for tonight, in preparation for this essay.

HW For Week Five

Hey Class,

Here's a reminder of the homework for this week:

1. Buy the Books - Especially the novel, because you are expected to read the first two chapters over the weekend.

2. Short Response #3:  Read the first two chapters (at least START the second chapter; I know it's a lot at once) of Slaughterhouse Five, and write a short response that reflects  how you feel at that point of the novel. In addition to that reflection, I want you to pick one of the themes that we discussed today in class (Free Will vs Fate / Time / Wartime and its effects / The Fool Character or Scapegoat / etc.) and apply it to the book. Which theme did you find? Find an example to maybe share in class. Even if not to share, find an example.

3. Short Response #4: Read Chapter 9 of "They Say I Say" (Link emailed to you for precaution) titled "Aint so / Is not", then do  the two activities at the end of the section.

THESE SHOULD BOTH BE TYPED, MLA FORMATTED.

If you have any questions, let me know!

And I'll be 100% next weds; thank you to everyone for coming ready to work. We'll go full writing mode next week.

David

Kurt Vonnegut Obituary

Hey Guys,

This is the Obituary I neglected to read to you in class today. You should definitely read it through, it helps to build a context for some of the events in the novel, and creates more of that "reliable narrator" that we were talking about today in class.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2007/apr/13/usa.kurtvonnegut

HW for Week 4 / MLA Style INFO

Hey Guys,

So as you know, your hw for this week is to finish your essay. Bring an MLA formatted, typed, final draft of Essay #1 to class on Tuesday. 

Bring in all of the drafts, and outlines that you have (I still have a lot in my bag which I'll include in your paperwork)


The image below is how your Header, Title, Page Number, and Paragraphs should be formatted to meet MLA requirements.

Essay #1 Rubric / Sample Conclusion

Hey Everyone!
Hope the writing is going well. 


Here is the Rubric that I'll be basing your grade on. If you feel lost, if you just follow the modeling that we've done in class, you will have a very solid start. 



Organization - 25

Clear Thesis - 10

Mechanics - 10

Content / Argument Built with examples and sources - 25

Using at least two quotes/paraphrases from the article you are referencing - 5

MLA Style / Paragraph Format - 15

Outline and Prewriting Items - 10

Total Points Possible: 100



************************************************************************
Sample Conclusion:

I also remember mentioning something about modeling conclusion paragraphs, so I'll show you the type of Conclusion paragraph I think is appropriate for this type of essay:

If I were to have written my essay about the influence of New Media on my community, and I'm arguing that it is a complete detriment to our society. 

My argument would then include a background about how new media has effected society over all,

then a paragraph about the effects on the younger generations, specifically.

(remember to mimic the ideas and language of your Intro / Thesis statement, then just send the reader off.)


      Even in consideration of the few benefits that new media offer our communities, it is startlingly clear that social media is damaging new generations. Cell phones and computers have caused people to disconnect from one another and the world around them. This is occurring across age groups, but it is most clear among the younger generations; we've seen a shift from social and "outdoors" oriented children, to those who would rather stay inside and stream a show, or see who's TBHing them on Instagram. Hope isn't lost though, since we still retain the luxury of free choice, so it's important that parents and those around kids, encourage a less disconnected lifestyle. Remind new generations that you came from an older time before the Matrix was real life, and outside was still good for skateboarding and riding bikes. It's up to us to stop the disconnect while we still have a chance to.    


This paragraph simply recaps the stuff that I just focused on, and ends with a little bit of the way that I like to write. Like I said, the Intro and the Conclusion are the places where you can be the most creative. I'm not adding any new information (because were assuming that all the things that I talk about were already talked about in one of the Body Paragraphs above).

And It doesn't have to be this long either. I just like to talk, and write. Just recap your argument, and talk about what's next. That's it. (Shoot for Three-Five Sentences)

Homework for Week 3 / Re-cap of formatting Expectations

Hey guys. I'm going to start reading your outlines tonight so I can give you advice as you work on your drafts. You not having your outlines checked before you start writing your drafts is a little problematic, so I'm going to send you emails specific to your argument as you work on this week's hw. And the hw is:

1. Write a complete rough draft of Essay #1 for Next Weds

That's a draft that includes the three major parts of an essay:

Intro
- Hook
- Background
- Link to your subject
- THESIS statement
Body Paragraphs
- Topic Sentence
- Example
- Explanation
- Explanation
- (conclusion/transition)
Conclusion
- Restate bulk of the argument
- Tell the reader what to do next, or why they should care, or just finishes the essay with a thoughtful idea that puts the finishing (usually dramatic) touches on your essay.

And every quote is set up in a sandwich:
- Attribution (Bread)
- Quote (Pastrami)
- Explanation (Pickles)
- Explanation (Bread)

These DO need to be typed since Wednesday's class depends on that, so make sure you set aside enough time to get them printed up.

Vonnegut article - "How to write with style"

Hey,

Here's the link to that Vonnegut article we covered in class today. Vonnegut is the type of writer who is so talented, his advice and style are not easily dated by changing times. So even though the article is clearly old, his advice still holds true because it's about respecting the writer as an individual with a voice, and that never changes:

 http://kmh-lanl.hansonhub.com/pc-24-66-vonnegut.pdf

David

Verb/Tense Agreement-Link

Hey guys,

Here's the link to the Purdue Owl page with the Subject/Verb rules I so eloquently covered in class tonight:

https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/599/01/

David

"The Effects of New Media" article

Hey Class,

Here's the link to the article about the influence of social media, it does a cool job of weighing the pros and cons.

https://mygpjournal.wordpress.com/2012/09/11/the-pros-and-cons-of-new-media/

I only want you to focus on the written article, so you can watch the videos if you want, but they aren't involved with this assignment. Brain food, though. Maybe not all of it.

David

Homework for Week2

Hey Guys,

So here is a list of the two things that are due next weds (both assignments should be typed):

1. Thesis and Outline for your Essay #1

2. Short Response: "Consider the Counter"
     - Write one paragraph that embodies the Counter-argument to whatever stance you are taking in your paper. IF you decided to be impartial, consider why somebody might choose to be on one specific side instead of acknowledging the issue's "multiple sides".

Let me know if you have any questions!

David

Essay #1 Prompt

Here's a copy of the ESSAY #1 Prompt that I presented in class today:

Persuasive Essay / Expository Essay – Essay #1 – Prompt          DUE DATE: 09/28

“An persuasive/expository essay is a formal piece of writing. It requires your opinion on a topic, which must be stated clearly, giving various viewpoints on the topic supported by reasons and/or examples. You should also include the opposing viewpoint in another paragraph.”

            

Over the past two classes we have read or discussed a few very important social themes: The causes and effects of Media saturation, and its influence on today’s citizens; the construct of social class and the role it plays in our lives as Los Angelenos (Renovation of LA); the state of civil rights and individual expression in our country (Colin Kaepernick articles).

            Since we've been reading articles that deal with the clashing of two sides, I want you to pick one and convince me that it is the better side. For this essay, pick one of the three themes that we’ve been discussing, (and if one topic involves the other, that’s ok also) and write a persuasive essay that explains what the subject is, supports your position on the subject with specific examples, and keeps a close eye on what other parties are saying about that subject.                        

            NOTE: If you want to write about a related subject that’s ok too, just run it by me first so I can verify that it’s on track

Ask yourself these questions as you pre-write, and build your paper:

-          What is the focus of your Subject? What is your stance on the subject? (Which side are you on, or do you feel impartial? Are you conflicted, or caught in the middle?)

                          Note: This First part should finish your Intro pargraph in the form of a thesis statement

-          What are some examples you can use and discuss that help support your opinion?

-          What is the opposing viewpoint of your position, and how is yours better?

Specific Requirements

-          MLA Format (12pt/Times New Roman/Double Spaced/Header)

-          At least one quote or example from an outside source, in each body paragraph
       
       NOTE: Use the Articles that were referenced in class, 
       but also (it's highly encouraged) try to find another article 
       to support/refute your argument.

-          2 .5 – 3 pages (No maximum, just no less than 2.5)

-           All Previous pre-writing and drafts turned in on due date.


***** as you begin to pre-write, try and find your own newspaper articles, or op-ed pieces that have to do with your subject (in support and opposition). This will help you develop a more well rounded paper, and get a handle on your argument earlier. ******

How To Make A Strong Outline

Here's a link to the Purdue OWL website. It breaks down the critical points of your outline process. And of course, we'll talk about this stuff in class:

https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/544/03/

david

Articles To Read for Today

Hey Everybody!!!

So I'm posting a couple of decent articles written from two different outlets about Colin Kaepernick, and his recent decision to no longer participate in singing the National Anthem.

I'm sure you've heard/read/watched plenty of things pertaining to this subject, and may or may not have your own opinion on the matter, and that is perfect. Bring your opinions and ideas to the consideration of these two articles.

One article goes in head over heels for Kaepernick, but still manages to present the context of inequality that he is standing up against very nicely:

http://theundefeated.com/features/kaepernick-is-asking-for-justice-not-peace/

While the other presents the events ultimately in support of the cause, it considers the situation with a fairly critical eye on everything:

http://reason.com/blog/2016/08/28/is-49ers-qb-colin-kaepernick-right-to-si


In addition to the questions propounded at the end of the second article:
"What do you think? Is Kaepernick taking a bold stand for equal treatment under the law? Or a spoiled brat? And is America a uniquely awful country whose flag and anthem should not be respected during ceremonial activities?"

 consider these as well:

Is there an undeniable under/over tone of racial inequality that has championed our society?

Is it only a question of racism? What is the definition of classism? In America there are scaffolds that people can locate to move around on the social ladder; does it become a discrimination of class then, when individuals gain a sense of entitlement once they've "ascended"? What creates that entitlement?

What is your definition of the American Dream?

We live in (arguably) the best country in the world, so what can we do as individuals to make it feel that way?


If you have time and end up reading this before class, that would be great. If not, we're gonna do it in class together anyway! See you guys tonight!!!

david

LA Times Article: Activists Seek Ballot Measure...

http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-ballot-measure-mega-projects-city-hall-20151118-story.html

This is the Link to the article that I wanted you guys to read/reflect on over the weekend. I chose the LA times one, because it was way better than my original choice. Trust.

Type the response in MLA format
- 12 pt font
- Double spaced
- Times New Roman
- Single Spaced MLA Header in the upper left*:

Students Name
Instructor
English 101
Short Response #1

Place your Last Name and page number in the top right corner of the page:

Click Insert
Page Number
Top Right
Then double click the number to add your last name

Type at least a full page (since you're going to have a header) but more than a page is definitely encouraged. 

For the reading, consider these ideas and questions as you respond:

What is the Coalition To Preserve L.A., and what is the Neighborhood Integrity Initiative? Is it something that you support? Why or why not?

Many supporters of development argue that Los Angeles is in the midst of a housing crisis; they argue that we need more condos because more people need places to live.
- Is there an issue when all of the housing being built can only be afforded by the most                  wealthy, and not the community that already lives there?

- What is gentrification?

There are many very talented engineers and architects (like Frank Gehry, to name a great) who aren't being allowed to develop their visions because of the Coalition's, Initiative:
- Is there a part of rebuilding urban areas that is important for the success of a community? Is                  redevelopment always bad?

These are some of the questions and ideas that you should be considering as you develop your short response to the content of the LA Times Article. A good method for responses would be to pick one or two of the ideas/questions, and respond to them in nicely organized paragraphs. If you feel like quoting from the article, please do. It will only give you more interesting stuff to talk about.

Remember to proof-read for common typo and grammar stuff. If you don't proofread, I promise I will be able to tell; the the, or freind will not go unnoticed.