Timeline Project

Timeline Project

Over the course of this semester, we will read a number of works with common themes. These themes will be rendered and examined in different ways over the timeline at which we are looking. In order to fully examine the importance of a common theme, we need to examine how the theme is rendered, why the theme is relevant to the specific time period from which the work is derived, and how we see the theme evolving in a more contemporary world.

For this project, students should select no fewer than three, no more than four texts embodying a common theme. Students should then examine the social context of the work as it relates to the theme, how the author advances the theme in the work, and how the use of the theme compares to other uses of the theme.

How to Approach This Assignment:

1. Choose the theme with which you want to work. Keep a list of themes discussed in class. From that list of themes, you should select the one in which you are most interested.
2. Choose the works you wish to examine. Some themes will be more obvious in certain works. Make sure you choose the works carefully, as you are seeking to examine how the theme transcends time.
3. Compare and contrast. A large component of this assignment will consist of comparing and contrasting how the authors of the works advance the theme. You should consider comparison and contrast as you examine the theme in the chosen works.

Physical Requirements: Students will write a comprehensive response containing no fewer than 1,500 words, no more than 2,000 words. This assignment must be submitted to the designated eLearn dropbox no later than 11:59 PM on the due date. See the course schedule for all important due dates. All submissions must be made as Microsoft Word documents (.doc or .docx). See your syllabus regarding submission policies, as well as policies regarding late or erroneous submission. Students must conform to MLA format 8th edition. The document should be typed and double-spaced in Times New Roman font with one-inch margins, appropriate headings, and an MLA works cited page.

Source Requirements: Students may find that outside sources are necessary in order to understand the social context in which these works were written. If research is necessary, students should examine quality academic sources. These sources should be included on a comprehensive works cited page. You will only submit one works cited page for this project. That works cited page will contain the works you’ve consulted, as well as any secondary sources with which you’ve consulted.

Grading: Students will be graded on the following components:
• Examination of the theme. The theme should be clearly stated and identified.
• Context is appropriately established. Explanation is offered to connect the context to the literary work.
• Comparison is appropriate for the literary works being discussed. Theme has been adequately examined in each of the texts being examined.
• Intellectual rigor. Explanation, comparison, and contrast demonstrate intellectual rigor and critical thinking skills.
• Grammar and Mechanics. Writing has been proofread and revised for tone, grammar, and format.

Criteria for Evaluation
N/A Excellent Above Average Average Needs Improvement Unsatisfactory
Is the theme clearly stated and identified?
60 50 45 40 35
Is the historical context adequately established?
60 50 45 40 35
Has the theme been adequately established and examined in each literary work? Is there specific textual support to establish the theme?
60 50 45 40

35
Does the comparison and contrast demonstrate appropriate intellectual rigor and critical thinking skills?
60 50 45 40 35
Has the writing been proofread for various mechanical and grammatical errors? Does the document conform to MLA format? 60 50 45 40 35