Sample Topic Sentences

Here are two sample topic sentences. Notice how each topic sentence stays focused on the relationship between the two texts.

Both Fredrick Douglass and Malcolm X faced hindrances in the pursuits of a gaining a education due to their race and environment.

However, though they were able to see the that aspect of the race the same, Douglass and Malcolm X shared different viewpoints on white men as a whole.

Sample Thesis Statement

Here is a student example of a strong thesis for the comparison essay:

Both Cofer and Staples discuss racial stereotypes and how they intersect with gender stereotypes in the United States; however, Staples, in a descriptive and colloquial style, describes how stereotypes affect his daily life, whereas Cofer, in an informative and self-assured biography, describes how stereotypes have affected her integration with American culture.

Censorship & the Internet

Read this article and summarize it. How do you think the internet changes Clear Channel's ability to control media? Should there be a governing body that regulates internet content?

Interview Goes Viral

The F Word

Read the article and respond. Should the FCC loosen its restrictions on "obscene" words? Why or why not?

Must it always be about sex?

Analyzing a Film

Pick a movie that you like and analyze the style in the same way that we analyzed our songs in class.

What is the genre of the movie? What aspects of the film make it fit into this genre? How does the film challenge or question the genre?

Who is the audience for this film? How does the film appeal to this audience?

What is the tone of the film? Use details from the film to support your points.

What are the main themes of the film? Analyze the little details of the film (cinematography, editing, music, etc.) to support your points.

Video for Thursday

Please watch this video for Thursday and jot down a few notes about it. Christine, of Group 4, will be talking about it as part of her presentation.

Being Multiracial in America