English 1301 Freshman Composition I, Fall 2014
Instructor Name: Sampada Chavan
Email Address: sampada.chavan@hccs.edu
Assignment #4 Cultural Critique (20% of total grade)
Does the academic system give you fits? Do you think people spend more
time looking at their phones than having real conversations? Do you believe
that a computer becomes obsolete before you've finished paying for it? Do you
think that commercials are better than the show? Do you think people are
becoming ruder because they can be rude at a "distance," e.g., by email, in
their cars, on the telephone, in chat rooms, in messages on T-shirts, hats, or
bumper stickers?
For your final essay, look around and select some (small) aspect of
society you'd like to critique. You may have a topic you'd like to analyze
already. If not, listen to the radio (talk stations), read the paper, books and/or
magazines, scan the Internet, watch television or just keep your ears/eyes
open. There are "topics" all around you. When you find an issue you'd like to
critique make sure you have a clear thesis. What is your position on your topic?
Will your thesis require some research? When you write a "position paper" it's
easy to lapse into a generalized sermon-like style. Avoid writing one
generalization after another by having specific data (personal or researched)
that you can use.
Do not even think about writing on the following topics (they've been written
to death): abortion, gun control, drinking age, the death penalty.
Once you have decided whether you support or refute the writer, spend time
gathering evidence and looking for sources that support your stance. Use at
least two sources and obtain them from reliable publications, including
textbooks, journals, newspaper articles, government websites, etc. Ask me if
you're unsure about the reliability of a source.
Structure:
Introduction - Start with the big picture. The first lines will introduce the
general topic and establish the importance of your essay. You can then move to
narrowing your topic and outline major points of debate. The introduction
should end with a thesis statement that outlines your argument.
Body Paragraphs - These will include the essence of your argument. Each of
your paragraphs must elaborate on your thesis and use supporting evidence to
further your argument.
Conclusion - End with a general statement that reminds the reader why your
topic is important and how it relates to the big picture.
Grading: Your essays will be graded on the parameters given above and how
well you follow them. Also:
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The proper use and validity of your two sources
A clear and well-written thesis statement
Grammar and overall presentation
The correct use of MLA format and citation
Assignment specifications:
 Length: 3-5 pages
 12 point, Times New Roman font
 MLA format