IB HOA 1-Fall 2015
Book Review: Assignment and Grading
Requirements:
Choose a historical monograph or biography related to the Americas (no historical fiction, no current events,
biographies can only be of persons who died or retired at least 40 years ago). The book must be at least 150
pages (not including appendices, endnotes, or index) and must be approved by Mr. Chambers. Mr. Chambers
has final say over what counts as a legitimate book choice.
(5 pts.)
The paper will be 3 to 5 pages typed, double-spaced (with no extra blank lines between
paragraphs), in one of the approved fonts.
Margins should be one inch all around (the default of 1.25” on sides for some versions of
Microsoft Word is acceptable).
Do not include a title page.
(5 pts.)
You must upload a copy to turnitin.com. In addition, you must e-mail a copy as an attachment
to joseph.chambers@slps.org (with your name and class period in the subject line; incorrect
subject line=0/5 points).
(15 pts.)
Use proper grammar and spelling. (See bulletin board for standing rules on what is/is not
allowed.)
What to include:
(5 pts.)
In the top right or left corner of the first page, put the following heading: (Your name)
IB HOA 1
Mr. Chambers
(Date)
(5 pts.)
Below the heading, before the body of the paper, give a Chicago style citation for your book.
(See the Purdue Online Writing Lab at owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/717/01/)
In the body of the paper, you need to cover the following areas:
(35 pts.)
Describe and summarize the contents of the book, for example, (but not limited to):
What event(s) or topic(s) does it cover?
What is the major thesis of the book?
What evidence is given to support this thesis?
What types of sources are used by the author, are they mostly primary or secondary
sources?
(30 pts.)
Analyze the book, for example, (but not limited to):
How effectively is the book presented?
Is it well-organized?
Is it balanced, or are there obvious biases?
Are there appropriate maps, charts, illustrations, etc.?
How effective is the book at covering and conveying knowledge of the subject matter?
Book choice due: In class, Mon-Tues, 10/5-6
Review due: Beginning of class, Thurs-Fri, 11/12-13