ETHNIC HISTORY PAPER GUIDELINES
1. Select a part of your racial/ethnic heritage you wish to explore. Many people’s
heritage includes more than one ethnicity.
2. The paper should focus on three areas: the history of your ethnic group’s migration
to the USA; the culture and customs they brought with them to the USA; and your
personal family’s history in the U.S. including the customs and traditions that are still
maintained.
3. Identify why and how your ancestors came to the USA. Was it voluntary or
involuntary? What conditions were they experiencing in their country?
4 . Describe the conditions they faced coming to the USA, and what they faced upon
arrival here.
5. Some of your ancestors may have already lived in the USA. This is true of Native
American Indians and some Hispanic groups. Nevertheless, describe some of their early
experiences.
6. Include information about how your family has continued, or not continued, the use
of your native language, customs, religion, foods, clothing, etc. Have you ever visited
your native land?
7. To assist you, there are a number of web sites and encyclopedias in the ECC library
for reference work on ethnicity. You must identify a minimum of four references,
including an Internet citing.
8. Your paper should be 4-6 double-spaced and typed pages, excluding your reference
page.
9. Papers are to be stapled in the upper left corner. Do not put your paper in any type of
folder.
10. Additional information including due date will be discussed in class.
CRITERIA FOR GRADING THE PAPER
1. Insight into history
2. Description of issues and experiences faced in the USA
3. Awareness of culture, customs and traditions
Total possible points
100