TASK:
You will write an essay (1000 words) that compares two texts; at least one of the texts must be from our assigned readings. If you choose an outside text to pair with an assigned text, you must obtain my approval for your outside text. I am not strict about what defines a text worthy of academic analysis; an outside text could include but is not limited to films, TV shows, songs, graphic novels, video games, works of visual art, YouTube videos, memes, TikTok videos, etc. Your analysis must include at least one critical text that pairs with a text you choose to analyze. Be sure to include a Works Cited or References page. Format your essay according to MLA or APA style. Include a title for your essay!
CRITERIA:
What questions will my instructor ask when grading this?
- The challenge (and meaningful nature) of a comparative analysis is that we use two things to illuminate each other, to make it clear to readers what the important similarities and differences are, how two different authors deal with a shared issue or employ the same literary element. Does this student develop an interesting and original approach to the discussion of these texts? Is there an intriguing discussion of the individual texts AND significant connections between them?
- Does this student develop a clear and effective organizational structure that introduces the audience to the topic/texts and engages their interest, leads them from one point to another in a logical fashion that makes it clear how one point relates to the next, and concludes by reiterating key points and restating the thesis in a new way?
- Is the student’s discussion of ideas clear, specific and in-depth?
- Is this discussion supported by cited examples, quotes, and paraphrasing of the text?
- Is this essay clear? Is the writing fluid, easy to read, and free of distracting errors?