Text Response #1

Instructions Unless otherwise announced, students are expected to prepare a writing assignment for every class. The Text Response must demonstrate that you have read the text carefully and identified key questions, issues and critical points for discussion for the assigned reading. The document should capture key information from the readings using your own words as deeply as possible and connect it to relevant personal experiences. This assignment is not intended as a summary or test to show that you did the reading. We will expect that each of us will do all the readings, so this assignment is an opportunity for us to deeply engage these readings in the context of our interests in the class. Your summary can be as long as you want but no less than 400 words. Each Text Response should include: Primary argument(s) of the text A passage(s) of the text you find particularly striking, and why At least (2) questions or comments you would like to offer in class. (One question and one comment, two questions, or two comments are all fine.) Questions can be questions of clarification, questions that highlight inconsistencies in the author’s argumentation, or questions about historical context or background. Comments can address anything substantive about the text – how its arguments connect or challenge other texts, how ideas in the text relate to contemporary or historic events, or any personal reflections the text generates for you. Include page numbers with all citations. You are required to submit this assignment the day before we meet for class Text Responses will be used for class discussion. Your grade for the Text Responses will be factored into your participation grade overall