This film is currently available on YouTube and Kanopywebsite.
Reaction Papers are an important and engaged way of reflecting on films shown in the course. Through these papers, you will learn to refine your analytical and critical thinking skills, as you apply course concepts and other sociological concepts to the subject matter covered in the films.
Section 1: Introduction of the film
This should be a brief clearly worded summary. Focus on core message of film. Do not cut and paste from Wikipedia or IMDB.
Section 2: Sociological Paradigms
You will be required to analyze the film using ONE of the three sociological paradigms.
Please clearly state which of the three paradigms you will be using. I am concerned with how well you understand paradigms and how well you can apply them to the film. Please provide a clear definition of the paradigm before applying the paradigm to the film.
For the film “The Business of Being Born” I will use Marx’s “conflict theory” to analyze the current system of child birth within the United States. Conflict theory argues that our society _____________________. The film provides a very clear argument for how child birth has become a business. Hospitals have a financial incentive in ensuring that expecting mothers are left with no alternatives to childbirth outside of the hospital……………
Section 3: Additional Course Concepts
Relate the Importance of the movie to concepts or readings discussed in class. This portion should include at least 2 course concepts or arguments from class readings to talk about the sociological relevance of the film. Ask yourself, why is this relevant in a Sociology course.
Please put the concept in bold font the first time you use it.
For example: The film related to the concept of feminism, which is the belief in the social, political and economic equality between men and women.
Section 4: Film Questions Miss Representation
Please answer these with a combination of your informed opinions, as well as backed up by class or other peer reviewed materials.
Section 5: Grammar and Formatting
Paper meets the requirements and standards from the provided course assignment sheet. Wording is proper without fragments, run-ons or other standard grammar errors.
The accepted format is 3-4 pages, double spaced, 12 pt. font. Remember, I am more concerned about content then length.
Reaction Papers are worth 40 points each
Points |
Section |
Criteria |
6 |
1 Film Introduction |
• Clearly worded summary.
• Focus summary on core message of film.
• Do not cut and paste from Wikipedia or IMDB.
|
12 |
2 Sociological Paradigm |
• Apply ONE of the sociological paradigms (Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interaction) to the film.
• Clearly define your chosen paradigm.
• Clearly define the relationship between the paradigm and the film.
• State the paradigm in Bold with first mention.
|
12 |
3 Additional Course Concepts
|
• Clearly define the chosen concept
• Clearly define the relationship between the concept and the film.
• State the concept in Bold with first mention
|
8 |
4 Film Questions
|
• Please answer these with a combination of your informed opinions, as well as backed up by class or other peer reviewed materials.
|
2 |
5 Grammar and Formatting |
• Paper meets the requirements and standards from the provided course assignment sheet.
• Wording is proper without fragments, run-ons or other standard grammar errors.
|
Total 40 |
|
|