ENGLISH 0890: PREPARING FOR COLLEGE WRITING
CROSS (CULTURAL) DRESSING
PAPER ASSIGNMENT
Using all that you know about creating an effective, well-written essay with a strong, clear
thesis statement, write a formal academic paper that addresses one of the following prompts.
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Germaine Greer’s tone in this piece is sharp and questioning. Compare and contrast
her style with that of a typical fashion magazine, such as Vogue, Mademoiselle,
Esquire or GQ. How does Greer’s style differ when she analyzes a feature of
Western fashion?
Which conventions govern the colors thought to be appropriate in different social
settings?
In what sense can body piercing, tattooing, and scarification, as discussed by
Germaine Greer in “One Man’s Mutilation Is Another Man’s Beautification,”
communicate meaning in the same way that clothing can, as discussed by Alison
Lurie in “The Language of Clothes”? What do these modifications “say” about the
wearer and about the prevailing social values in the culture in which they are
practiced?
How do today’s hairstyles reflect societal and generational attitudes? What changes
in hairstyles have you witnessed, and what is their significance?
Use your knowledge of writing and personal style to write the most effective paper possible.
Although this personal creativity is encouraged, papers should be formal and academic and
contain the following elements.
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All elements of an effective essay
A clear thesis statement
Clear and substantial evidence that supports and validates the thesis statement
An argument that is clearly worded, well-organized, and logically presented
A strict avoidance of
1. self-conscious writing (the use of “I,” “we,” or “us” or reference to the paper
itself (“This paper/paragraph will offer proof that . . .”) and
2. writing that directly addresses the reader (the use of “you”)
Papers must be typed or word-processed, and follow the paper formatting guidelines handed
out in class. Paper bodies must be 2-3 pages in length for full credit. See the Paper
Formatting Guidelines handout for more detailed information.
Please see the Cross (Cultural) Paper Grading Rubric for specific letter-grade requirements.