Make-Your-Own-Assignment Option
Because we cannot possibly
cover all of the interesting topics in the media, we offer an alternative that
allows you to pursue some other topics. With
permission, you may elect to replace one (1) thought paper grade with a
make-your-own assignment. This
will be more work than a regular thought paper, but it lets you incorporate
your own interests in the class.
Here is what you have to do.
á
Find a myth,
ad, or media depiction of an idea not covered in class.
á
Research the
science behind the source you have found.
á
Write a scientific
critique about the source using the known science:
o What is correct about the claims/ideas?
o What has been exaggerated,
skewed, misrepresented, etc.?
o What is just plain wrong?
This option has strict
guidelines and strict deadlines, so you must get materials in on the
appropriate dates to be eligible for this option:
|
TOPIC APPROVAL BY 10/16 |
You must turn in your source
and meet with either Dr. Shelton or Mr. Spiegel BEFORE 10/16 to determine
whether it is appropriate for the assignment. |
|
WORKING BIBLIOGRAPHY BY 11/5 |
You must turn in a brief
list of relevant scientific references in peer-reviewed journals that will be
used to support your critique. (See a reference librarian if you need
assistance with searching journal databases.) |
|
FINAL WRITE-UP DUE 11/19 |
Final write-up with
source attached in some form must be turned in. Paper should be complete with references. |
For problems with website, contact:
ashelton@jhu.edu
Last updated: 9/3/09