Overview
This is the first in a series of four assignments on the same topic, due in Weeks 2, 4, 7, and 9. The assignments build upon each other as you work toward a final presentation.
In this first activity, you will select one topic area for the series and conduct preliminary research. This preliminary research on a topic that interests you will help ensure that you’ll be able to find enough information and credible resources to write about the topic’s history, current challenges, and current or proposed solutions.
You will also create an annotated bibliography – a list of resources you will use in your assignments, with a brief summary of each. An annotated bibliography shows that you have carefully chosen and critically assessed your resources.
Scenario
This week, you begin your work as either:
An investigative reporter for a major publication.
You can choose an existing publication, such as the New York Times, or use a fictional one.
An investigator for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
You can choose to work for a particular agencyLinks to an external site. at the DOJ, or just assume the position of a general investigator.
You have been assigned to research an important ethnic, racial, gender, or class issue that is evidencing problems and affecting people in a specific community. (Remember that a community can be geographic, social, or professional, such as a region, a group of people sharing a common characteristic, or a workplace.)
Your goal is to provide an in-depth analysis of and put a human face on the issue, the problems being evidenced, and changes proposed or implemented to bring about improvement for those affected.
Preparation
Choose one of the following topics in SOC400: Assignment Topic List [PDF] Download SOC400: Assignment Topic List [PDF]to use for all of the course assignments listed above. Remember that you are focusing your article or report on issues within the larger topic area, reporting on the impact of current challenges affecting a specific community or group of people. You will want to keep your examination of history relevant and focused, shedding light on the current issues. Make sure your specific focus, though, is still large and/or well-documented enough to allow you to research all the elements of your article or report.
As you begin your research, collect the most valuable and relevant resources for your annotated bibliography. Each annotation both describes and evaluates the resource. It can include a brief synopsis, information on how the resource is relevant to the topic or field, and information on the author. It shows that you have carefully chosen and critically assessed your resources. The Strayer Library’s What Is an Annotated Bibliography? page provides instructions on how to format an annotated bibliography.
Your professor will act as your editor or supervisor and provide guidance as you refine your topic area and coverage.
Requirements
Write a 2-3 page paper using the headings in bold, below:
Topic Description. Describe one topic area you would like to research for your article or report.
The topic area selected should involve problems for those affected.
Topic Rationale. Provide a rationale with three reasons for selecting the topic area.
Annotated Bibliography. Create an annotated bibliography of five credible, relevant, reliable sources for the selected topic area.
For help with research, writing, and citation, access the library or review library guides.
Please review the Strayer Library’s What Is an Annotated Bibliography? page for instructions on how to format an annotated bibliography.
This course requires the use of Strayer Writing Standards (SWS). The library is your home for SWS assistance, including citations and formatting. Please refer to the Library site for all support. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
The specific course learning outcome associated with this assignment is:
Evaluate theory, resources, and debates that explore class, ethnicity, gender, and race.