Background When I was planning this course and searching for free readings for us to access, I was recalling stories I love and reading widely for new voices to include in our anthology on identity. An anthology is a collection of literary works by various authors; typically organized in response to a theme or as a representation of a region or year. I have looked for a diversity of voices and experiences. However, I am enlisting you all as our team of editors to identify the pieces I have not included. Maybe there are literary stories in media (Instagram poems, songs, podcasts, graphic novels) I have not included or voices and cultures I have failed to consider. Let’s get these voices into our collection. woman holding magnifying glass Specifics of the Assignment Part One – The Piece Identify one piece that is accessible for free online. Include the link and the entire text. Copy and paste this piece into your document. Part Two – The Essay In an introduction, craft a hook that sets the tone for what you will share. Include the piece’s title, author, and a brief synopsis of the piece. Include the thesis: We should include this piece in our anthology. Then develop a minimum of three body paragraphs to explain why. As an example, consider the following topic sentences to develop as body paragraphs: because it is an excellent piece of literature, a missing piece or a better piece than what is included in the current collection, and it fits with our theme and module (choose a specific module). Body one should focus on the topic sentence excellent piece of literature; use quotes from the source and reviews as support for this paragraph. Body two should focus on missing/better; describe the gap or weakness and how this is the right addition/replacement. Body three should focus on the fit; specifically explain how it should be organized in the course. What current pieces we have complement it? Which module does it fit in? After developing the body paragraphs with thoughtful examples, in a paragraph before the conclusion, address counter arguments: Consider why we may not choose this piece, and, after some thoughtful consideration, offer one more reason why this piece is essential. In the conclusion, sum up without repeating (this means we do not need you to mention the author and topic sentences again), leave a strong last impression by wrapping back to your hook. Further, link this piece to larger societal/identity issues and call us to action. Please make sure you include a Works Cited in MLA format. See the Library Module. Due Date Please post your final draft of the essay by Tuesday of week eight, at 11pm. Assessment I will post my feedback on your assignment within ten days of the assignment deadline. You can find my feedback by accessing your assignment in Grades, selecting the Rubric icon, and reading my comments within the rubric. Wondering how essays are assessed? Please see the grading rubric below for guidance on what is expected for full credit.
Introduction (1 page)
- Crafting a hook, providing the title, author, and synopsis of the piece, and establishing your thesis.
Body Paragraphs (3-4 pages)
- Body 1 (1 page): Explain why the piece is an excellent piece of literature, including quotes and supporting evidence.
- Body 2 (1 page): Discuss the gap or weakness in the current anthology and how this piece is a better addition or replacement.
- Body 3 (1 page): Explain how this piece fits into the course’s theme and modules, and how it complements other works.
Counter-Argument (1 page)
- Address potential reasons the piece may not be chosen and provide additional justification for its inclusion.
Conclusion (1 page)
- Summarize your points, provide a broader connection to societal or identity issues, and leave a lasting impression.
Works Cited (half a page)
- MLA citation for the piece you’re discussing.
Based on the Module Five Overview you’ve shared, this module seems to focus on identity through the lens of names, which could be a good fit if the piece you’re proposing addresses themes of how names shape or reflect identity. If the piece you want to include touches on topics like personal identity, the significance of names, or how identity is defined or represented through names, then this module would be an excellent choice.
The module also encourages you to make a strong claim and convince your audience—skills that are crucial for the assignment you’re working on. If the piece you’re proposing aligns with these concepts and the module’s objectives, this would be a suitable module to choose for explaining where the piece fits within the course.
If the piece you want to suggest doesn’t directly relate to names but still explores themes of identity, you might still be able to make a connection to the broader goals of this module, which involve interpreting literature and constructing thoughtful responses.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which module best aligns with the themes of your selected piece. If Module Fiveresonates with the work you’re considering, then it would be a great choice!