Representation Analysis

For this assignment, you will construct a clear, concise argument about the representation of a particular group, person, or issue in a particular popular culture text or series of texts.

Much has been written on the way that people are represented in popular culture. Representations of particular groups or cultures often rely on long held stereotypes to allow the audience to “fill in” certain understandings or storylines. For this paper you will consider both the character and potential consequences of these representations.

Your analysis should be focused on a particular text1 or type of text, however, you should conduct some background research to see what others have said about your topic. Your paper should include AT LEAST 3 scholarly, academic sources and AT LEAST 3 popular sources (i.e. news articles, op-eds, blog posts, etc).

So, your outside sources should provide you with a basis of comparison and then you will detail your analysis of the themes or patterns you see in your text. Your paper should be organized around a central idea with clearly articulated main points of support. You should support your claims with SPECIFIC examples from your text. You should show what you mean, rather than just tell me what you mean.

Your paper should be well organized, clear and concisely written, and effectively argued. Your paper should be 6-8 pages, typed, double-spaced, with a font size no larger than 12 point.

Your paper will be evaluated on the following:

A clear introduction that establishes 1) a thesis; 2) a clear preview of what’s to come; 3) an interesting “hook” for your topic (20 points)

Organization. Your paper should have a sense of flow and connection. Transition effectively between ideas. Provide a substantive and cohesive conclusion. (20 points).

Support for ideas. Your paper should provide effective evidence for your ideas. Show your reader what you mean rather than just tell them about your ideas. Effectively use examples to support your claims. Bring your outside sources (3 popular/3 scholarly) seamlessly into your paper. (20 points).

Quality of your argument. Build a substantive and well reasoned case for what you see in these representations. Your ideas should be sound and reflect a solid understanding of your topic. (20 points).

Writing. Your paper should be well written. This includes clear concise language, rich description, and proper grammar and style. (20 points).