PROPOSAL DUE TUESDAY,
MARCH 19, 2013 [let me know if you need an extension]
The final project consists of two options:
1)
5 page research paper
2)
2-3 page paper with a creative element to
accompany the paper
The proposal is worth 15% of the final project grade. You
must submit a proposal and have it approved by me.
The topic of your final project is up to you. I encourage
you to think outside the box. Be sure to pick something that actually interests
or inspires you. You are not limited to the things we covered in class, so
spend some time looking through the textbook or searching online. As long as it
has to do with American history sometime from 1877 to the present is a valid
topic.
To get started I suggest the following steps:
1)
Consider the time frame of the class and
brainstorm. In your opinion, what is the most significant or interesting thing
that occurs during this time? Is there anything you have a personal connection
with? You will be spending a lot of time researching and writing, so choose
something that is actually interesting to you!
2)
Narrow down your topic. Be sure that for your
topic you have a defined era and a narrow focus.
3)
Find sources. You need at least three print
sources for the project. Find books that cover your topic.
If you choose to incorporate a creative element, here are
some broad ideas for how you might interpret a topic beyond just writing a
paper: Artwork (painting, drawing, sculpture); create a video; write a song;
writing (poem, short story, lyrics, play); food (you could cook something
or compile recipes); sports;
theater; create a blog or website, etc. If you choose something that requires
more than one person to complete it, you can work in a group. However, you each
need to submit your own individual essay to accompany the project.
PROPOSAL: You
proposal should include:
1)
Research question
2)
Why is your topic significant? Why does it
interest you?
3)
What will your project actually be? Explain if
you are just doing a research paper or if you will also be including something
you have created, such as a story, video, or song.
4)
Would you like to present your final project to
the class?
5)
List your sources
