Field research paper
The assignment
You will profile a place, an event, an activity or a person. You will learn to gather first-hand information
using field research methods such as observation, interview and/or survey. You will analyze the date,
organize it creatively and coherently, and most importantly, communicate a significance through your
field work. Observe your subjects closely and then present what you have learned in a way that informs,
engages, entertains, and educate.
This assignment will be completed in groups of two or three. The paper should be at least 4 pages long in
double space. Other than the paper assignment, you will also give a PPP to class.
The general subject matter for this paper is the working poor in America. Ehrenreich touched upon
several related issues. They are:
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the living and working condition of the poor
the gap between poverty and prosperity
A network of companies and institutions in America and their role in making the poor even
poorer
The poor are often poor for generations
Social and political power of the poor
Social responsibilities for the poor
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Group assignments
Group
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2
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Names
Brain, Katelyn
Amada, Kara, Trent
Shelby, Noel, Douglas
Erik, Emily, Kathy S
Renae, Matthew, Vanessa
David, Ellyn, Ed
Gina, Scott
Julia, Jacob
Bonnie
Candace
Topic
Potential topics:
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A homeless shelter in Winona
a government social welfare service center
food bank
a credit card company
a struggling family
2nd hand store
a loan officer in a bank
an auto dealer
Cautions:
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You cannot do a person or place that you know well.
You must collect information; you cannot depend on recollections from memory.
You must turn in evidence of research. Save all your field notes: interview notes, observation notes,
survey results,--anything that can be used as evidence of research. Papers without evidence of research
will get Fs.
once in the group, you are expected to share the work. They will be some measure of your participation
from your group members to be turned in with the paper.
In-class writing on Soup Nazi:
Write a short paper that includes information regarding the following. This is a short paper; it should not be a list
of answers to the following questions. Use the prompt.
What are the most important features of a good profile paper?
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An engaging and entertaining topic
A manageable topic (consider time, accessibility, etc.)
Vivid description of places, people and objects
Vivid narrative details of events and activities
An effective order
Dominant impression (focus)
Significance
visual aids such as pictures