Overview
Researching Inequalities and Social Issues
Instructions:
Think of this as a miniature research paper, where the main goal is to locate and summarize scholarship on a given inequality or social issue covered from Chapter 6 to the end of the course. This can be either a broad issue, such as environmental racism, or one that is more specific, such as such as discrimination experienced by Pacific Islanders. In about 4 pages, discuss the following:
Discuss how one of the major theoretical paradigms (Functionalism, Conflict theory, and Symbolic Interactionism) would explain the issue. You will probably need to use specific theories that fall into these.
Describe the prevalence and magnitude of the inequality/issue you selected using class material and outside research
Your paper should have a clear introduction, thesis, body, and conclusion. You are required to use two outside sources, one must be a peer reviewed, such as academic journal articles, academic books, or reliable research websites such as the Census Bureau or the Bureau of Labor statistics. It may be necessary to go beyond the two sources in order to properly address the points above. Along with information from the textbook and lecture, these should be properly cited using MLA, APA, or ASA format for in-text citations and your references page.
Evaluation:
The information below describes how the essays will be graded. The score will be based on a 20 points scale where each item is worth 5 points. The points for each item are assigned as described in the grading key below.
- Thesis and intro: Clearly explains what the topic is and what argument will be made. (5 pts.)
Use outside resources: Presents a clear description of the scope or prevalence or magnitude of the inequality/issue. (5 pts.)
- Accurately applies sociological paradigm. (5 pts.)
Demonstrates organization and clarity in writing and properly cites sources and includes in-text citations and a reference page. (5 pts.)
Grading Key:
Does exceptionally well, in a way that distinguishes this essay from other very good ones (5)
Does very well, without any shortcomings (4)
Does well, but without distinction, possibly due to minor flaws, inconsistencies, or conceptual limitations (3)
Does satisfactorily, meeting minimum expectations, but with numerous minor problems or one major shortcoming (2)
Does in an unsatisfactory way, showing a fundamental misunderstanding of the material or concepts (1) Does poorly, demonstrating a lack of effort or ability (0)