Exemplar Essay Assignment

Exemplar Essay Assignment

2-3 Pages, Double Spaced, Times New Roman Size 12

Two essays submitted per semester (One before October 16^th)

Assignment: Each student will select a concept covered in class and find an example of this concept in a form of media from outside of class. Students will then write a 2-3 page essay defining this concept, applying the concept to their example while making a larger argument about what the application of this concept says about media in our, or another, society.

Outline:

• Introduction 1 paragraph
  • Briefly introduce the concept you are using to make your point
    • Briefly introduce the example you are applying your concept to
  • Thesis Statement: Explain the argument you are making in one or two succinct sentences.
    • What are you going to say about this piece of media and how does the concept allow you to make your point?
    • Ex: The hypodermic syringe approach to media is found in George Orwell’s Animal Farm, where the blind willingness of the farm animals to accept the pigs’ words as truth shows how messages from those in power can be forced directly onto a less powerful audience.
  • Outline the structure of your essay[unique_solution]
• The concept 1 paragraph
  • Define the concept
  • Explain what the concept means to an uninformed reader
• The example 1-2 paragraphs
  • Give your example
    • Explain it in relative depth
    • Give any necessary context the reader needs to understand the example
  • The application 2-3 paragraphs
    • Apply the concept to the example
      • Explain why this is an appropriate application
      • Use specific text, quotes, or lyrics to support your application of the concept
    • The conclusion 1-2 paragraphs
      • Solidify the points necessary to make your argument
        • What does this example of this concept have to say about media in society?
      • Restate your points in support of your thesis
      • Conclude by restating your thesis and why, based on the evidence provided above, it is a valid argument

Exemplar Essay Rubric

100 Points Each (Total 200 Points)

10% of Final Grade Each (20% Collectively)

Presentation of Material, Knowledge and Application of Concept (50 points):

• Student clearly displays an intimate knowledge of the concept chosen, defines it correctly, and is able to articulate clearly precisely what the concept means.
• Student describes the example with depth, as if to a reader with no familiarity towards the example.
• The chosen example clearly fits the concept and the student uses specific textual references to explain exactly why this is an appropriate example.

Organization of Paper, Clarity of Argument (30 Points):

• Student presents a finished paper, complete with an introduction, clearly defined thesis, strong evidence in support of the thesis and an effective conclusion.
• Student presents a logical argument that is easy to follow and appropriately reasoned
• Paragraphs are joined together with smooth transitions, leading the reader from point to point.
• Essays flows. Language is not choppy; sentences are well written.

Personal Insight and Creativity (10 points):

• Student selects an engaging and interesting example and provides insightful commentary.
• Essay is engaging to read; the reader is interested and wants to learn more!

Spelling, Grammar, Conformity to Specifications (10 Points):

• Essay is free from spelling and grammatical errors.
• Student turns in a 2-3 page essay written in Times New Roman 12-point font, with 1” margins, complete with their names, the name of the course, and an informative and creative title.
• Student provides an ASA style citation for their example so it is easily accessible.