American Studies 100: Introduction to American Studies
Final Paper 15 points / Due 11:59 PM, May 15, 2020, Uploaded to Blackboard
For your final paper, you will analyze a film assigned to you. Your analysis should focus on three of the themes from the course this semester (race, class, gender, and intersectionality).
The list of assigned movies is on page 2 of this handout. All movies are available on Blackboard for streaming.
Similar to your midterm paper, this paper will have a five paragraph structure.
• Introduction: briefly introduce the film you’ve chosen and make an argument for your reading of the film
• Body Paragraph 1: Analysis of theme 1 with examples and explanations from the film
• Body Paragraph 2: Analysis of theme 2 with examples and explanations from the film
• Body Paragraph 3: Analysis of theme 3 with examples and explanations from the film
• Conclusion: Provide a conclusion and summary of your analysis with any observations about the film and themes as a whole.
Tip: Arguments are strongest when using evidence to back up your claims, including details, examples and quotes will help strengthen your paper. While you’re writing, think to yourself… if I say this, how do I support it?
• Please DO NOT use sources other than your movie for this paper. This movie is your only source. You need to watch the movie carefully and you should take notes as you watch. You may not include Internet information about your movie in this paper.
Formatting
Your final paper should be 3-4 full pages double spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font.
Citations
You are expected to cite your sources in-text, using MLA formatting and to include a bibliography at the end of your paper.
Grading
In this class, I will grade your papers based on your thorough answering of the prompt provided for you. This includes addressing your chosen film, how the three themes you choose work within that film, your inclusion of a introduction and conclusion, within the 3 to 4 page allotment. You will be graded primarily by your content (argument and evidence), though you must write clearly enough that I can understand and follow your argument.
Please watch the movie “Tortilla Soup” which is available for free on YouTube for context