English 235, Spring 2010
Tue / Thu, 11:30 – 12:50 pm
Marcil 216
e-mail: jgarrett1@une.edu
Professor:
Office:
Office Hours:
Phone:
Julia M. Garrett
Marcil 115
Tue 4:30–5:30; Wed 1–3 pm
602–2226
Marlon Riggs: “Ethnic Notions”
Video Summary & Analysis Assignment
Due: Tuesday, February 9, in class
Pre-writing tasks:
1) Marlon Riggs video: take thorough notes while watching the video; take special note of how the
video presentation is structured, where Riggs makes a transition to a new subtopic; highlight or
mark 3–4 memorable episodes and/or images from the video, preferably episodes/images that
relate in some way to some of the concepts we have studied so far in the course. Jot down in the
margins some ideas about how each episode/image relates to other materials we have read or
viewed in the course so far. When we are done watching the video, write down as many details
as you can remember about those episodes/images – the information presented, what your
immediate reactions to them were.
Summary and Analysis assignment:
2) Type a brief informal essay (700–800 words) divided into 3 paragraphs, summarizing the
information in the video and analyzing that information in relation to other materials we have
studied so far. Your first paragraph should be a summary of the information presented, including
an explanation of how the video is structured. For the remaining 2 paragraphs choose one
episode/image from the video for each paragraph and analyze why you found it memorable and
compelling. Use any of the following questions: What was your immediate response, some of
your thoughts as you watched that material? Have any of those responses changed since you’ve
had some additional time to think about the video? What information did the episode present
that was new to you? What connections can you make between that episode and any of the other
materials we have studied so far (including all the essay readings and the other videos)? What
additional information are you curious to know about now?
3) Come up with 2 discussion questions related to material in the video; type those at the end of your
essay.
Revision and exchange:
4) After drafting all three paragraphs, go back and make necessary corrections to your prose for proper
grammar and clear expression. If the essay is too short, fill out some of your points further.
Revise other sections of your essay to develop your ideas further.
5) Bring your revised essay to class. Use 1½ spacing, and include a full heading at the top, including
your word count.
6) Exchange your revised essay with the 1 other student at the very beginning of class.