Pick a topic you’re interested in and write about it in 3 different genres

Pick a topic you’re interested in and write about it in 3 different genres. Must use at least 2 sources (throughout the whole project, not per genre). MLA citation. 9-12 pages total for the genre essays portion. That means 3 mini-essays.

Pick a topic you’re interested in and write about it in 3 different genres

General Rules for Assignment:

Pick a topic you’re interested in and write about it in 3 different genres

Must use at least 2 sources (throughout the whole project, not per genre). MLA citation.

9-12 pages total for the genre essays portion. That means 3 mini-essays.

Treat this assignment as 3 separate and discreet essays, rather than one. There is no need for them to be cohesive as a whole. In fact, please don’t do that.

12 point font, Times New Roman or Helvetica. Double spaced. The usual.

Genre Checklist (Things I’m looking for in each genre.)

Literacy Narrative = (I doubt anyone will pick this, but…) Is it a well-told story? Are there vivid details, making the writing feel more real? Is there a sense that this story matters?

Analysis = Is there an adequate summary of what is being analyzed? Does this analysis examine the topic in a larger context, such as how it impacts society? Is the interpretation or conclusion of this analysis clear? Is there adequate support for this interpretation or conclusion?

Reporting = Is there a focussed topic? Is there accurate and adequate research? Does this report synthesize the material/data—does it show a connection to an idea? Are there any lists or charts included (not necessary)?

Argument = Is the position in this argument clear? Does the reader have enough background information for the argument to make sense? Is there enough reasons or evidence to support this position? Does this appeal to the reader’s sense of values or emotions? Does this seem more like an opinion rather than a well thought out and structured argument?

Evaluations = Is there an adequate description of the topic? Does the writer seem like they are something of an authority on the subject? Is the assessment balanced (looking at both pros and cons)? Is the evaluation well supported with evidence or research?

Memoir = (We haven’t talked about this one yet, but it is an option.) Is this a well-told story? Are there vivid details? Does the reader get a sense that this is significant? Is there dialogue and scene work? Does the narrative focus on a particular angle of your life?

Profiles = Is there enough background info? Is there an interesting angle or framing to this portrait of a person? Is it balance (looks at flaws as well as accomplishments?

Proposals = Is the problem clearly define? Does the writer offer a solution to this problem? Is there a good argument for this solution? Would this convince others to act on this solution?

Reflection = (This is on a reflective essay, such as “My Life as a Dog,” not the reflection for the assignment as a whole.) Is it an interesting topic? Is there some type of structure to this essay, or arc (think dog park in the Safran-Foer essay)? Are there vivid and specific details? Does this essay ask questions? Does it explore the micro and macro of your topic?

Or any other type of written genre you choose. = You may use one non-academic genre, but it must be approved ahead of time via email.