
3 Current Event Essays. Each worth 60 points; 180 points total.
When considering complicated and important topics, sometimes it's best to think about it in relation to real-world problems. Four times throughout the semester, the instructor will post a discussion board and a link to a current event article on human-environment interactions. For each of the 4 Current Event Essays, you will write a 750-1000 word essay response in which you address how the current event relates to course material, drawing on specific readings. Each current event essay is worth 50 points toward your final grade. Partial participation, including not contributing thoughtfully to the discussion, will result in partial points.
Current Event Essays will be due by Thursday at 11:59 pm (Eastern) of the weeks noted in the calendar on Canvas.
You will be graded as follows:
- 25 points: Connection with Course Content. Your 1000-word reaction to the current event. Your post must address the article and questions posted by the instructor, and must make direct connections to the course material, drawing on specific readings/films. You need to have a clear argument that you are able to defend.
- 15 Points: College Level Writing. I expect that you will write your essay at a college level. This course is a 400-level course meaning you should have had ample time in college to learn how to write. I will be grading you on your usage of the English language. Make sure to proofread your responses for spelling and grammar.
- 10 points: Correct Citations and at least 1 non-course citation. Make sure to cite the current event article posted by the instructor, any course readings you use in your essay, and at least one additional citation that you found on your own. These should all be in APA format.
- 10 Points: Follow Directions. Make sure to follow the directions. These essays are meant to be 750-1000 words in length, and answer the prompt posed.