Writing assignment
Mid-Term Assignment
Answer the following question:
Is Canada a Racist Society?
Make use of the assigned readings, especially chapters two and three, to discuss whether Canada is or is not a racist society. Use specific examples to support your answer.
REQUIREMENTS:
You must have Augie Fleras’ textbook as a reference; any other sources are not necessary, but if used properly this will definitely make your paper stronger. The same applies to the documentaries posted on Culearn/ARES – not obligatory, but bonus if well applied.
Explain the debate on Canadian brand of racism(s) by summarizing both arguments (for and against). Make sure to make a distinction between the existence of racism and racists and the reality of a racist society. In other words, is a racist society the same as racism within society?
Provide arguments and evidence (examples) for both oppositional claims, and take a position in the debate. Whose arguments are more convincing and why? If you cannot take any position, explain why. Your examples can be from your own life, from your family/friends and social circle, from newspapers, magazines, and academic articles, from films posted on Culearn/ARES or from the textbook. Note that more examples you provide, stronger the paper could be.
Provide clear definitions of the types of racism you are referring to and example(s) to support the claims. You don’t need to explain all types of racism, just those that are relevant to your analysis. You can distinguish between past and present forms of racism, as well between individual and institutional level of racism in Canada.
Your paper MUST contain:
1) Definitions of key terms and concepts used
2) Clear examples for each claim in the debate
3) A plausible explanation of your position in the debate
FORMAT: The assignment does not need to be written in the essay form – just answer the question in a straightforward manner. Any citation style is acceptable (eg., APA, MLA, etc), but you must provide a full reference in the text (ie, name of the author, year of publishing and page number) and include bibliography at the end of the paper.
A Paragraph cannot exceed one page.
A Quote can be maximum 4 lines long; if longer, then use indent and single space. If your quotes are not explicit, you must explain their meaning or provide a clear example that illustrates their meaning.
Links between theoretical concepts and practical-empirical examples (or research data) should be as clear as possible.
Grading Criteria:
Your analysis should be informed by theoretical concepts, and you must provide academic references to support your arguments. The main evaluation criteria are:
1) Critical thinking and analytical skills;
2) Organization of thoughts and materials;
3) Clear expression of ideas and arguments;
4) Academic writing skills (appropriate format, spelling, grammar, consistent citation style, etc).
IMPORTANT: Papers should have 8-10 pages (double-spaced, font 12) and must be dropped electronically on due date. Late papers should also be dropped electronically and accompanied with a medical note (otherwise will be penalized – see the syllabus).
DUE DATE = February 22 by 11 :59 pm
