Final Project
Due Date: Sunday, June 28, at 11:59 PM Points: 100
Project Overview
For your final project, you will create a PowerPoint presentation on a sociological topic of your choice. This project allows you to explore a subject that resonates with you while applying concepts and theories from the course to a real-world issue.
Instructions
1. Choose a Topic
Select a specific sociological issue, not a broad topic. Your project should focus on a clear, real-world problem or question.
Examples of strong topics include:
- Income inequality in the United States
- The gender wage gap
- Student debt and its impact on young adults
- Racial disparities in the criminal justice system
- Immigration policy and its impact on families
- The impact of social media on identity and self-esteem
- The role of religion in politics
- Political polarization in the United States
You may choose another topic, but it must be focused and clearly connected to sociology.
2. Find a Newspaper Article
Locate one newspaper or magazine article related to your topic. This article will be your main source.
Suggested sources include:
- The New York Times
- The Washington Post
- NPR
- The Economist
- The Wall Street Journal
- BBC News
- The Atlantic
3. Create Your PowerPoint (10–15 Slides)
Your PowerPoint should include the following:
- One slide: Name, date, class (include course # and section #), and project title
- One slide: A clear introduction to your topic and why it matters
- 2–3 slides: Summary of your newspaper article (main points, key ideas, or data)
- 3–4 slides: Connection to at least one sociological concept from class (explain the concept and clearly show how it applies to your topic)
- 2–3 slides: Explanation or examples that help further illustrate your topic (this can include details, patterns, or real-world context from your article)
- One slide: Conclusion summarizing what you learned
- One slide: Links to sources
4. Polish Your Work
Before submitting:
- Proofread for grammar and clarity
- Make sure slides are organized and easy to read
- Avoid too much text on each slide
Create and submit your project as a PDF or Google Slides.
Grading Criteria
| Criteria | Description | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Sociological Topic Clearly Stated | The topic is clear and relevant to sociology | /15 |
| Connects to Sociological Theory | Includes a clear connection to a sociological concept | /25 |
| Evidence from Article | Uses a quote, data point, or key information from the article | /25 |
| High-Quality PowerPoint | Slides are organized, clear, and visually appealing | /25 |
| Grammar, Edited, Polished | Free of errors and professionally presented | /10 |