Women’s issues paper assignment

Research and make an argument about an issue of relevance to African women:

Your paper should be analytical in nature.  Take a stand and make a clear argument about your topic.  Take advantage of my offer to discuss theses/arguments early in the process – better to hear, “This argument is no good,” when you’re just getting started than to read it on your paper next to a grade.

You may wish to focus on a prominent African woman.  Here are some suggestions:

  • Helen Suzman
  • Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
  • Wangari Maathai
  • Winnie Mandela
  • Nadine Gordimer
  • Ayaan Hirsi Ali

You may wish to focus instead or as well on a major issue.  Here are some suggestions:

  • The education gender gap
  • Family structure and roles – e.g. polygamy
  • Women’s role in the HIV/AIDS epidemic
  • Sexual rights and freedom
  • Female genital mutilation
  • Body image as it relates to a broader issue 
  • Female political leadership

I MUST approve your topic, even if you select one of these.

Due dates:

  • Your proposed topic and tentative argument are due on Thursday, April 2.
  • A draft or significant outline is due on Tuesday, April 8 – write over the weekend.
  • The paper is due on Friday, April 11.
  • Late papers lose a letter grade a day. Turn in your paper on time.  Never turn in nothing.
Summary of requirements:
  • Write on a topic that I approve.
  • Make a formal, structured, and concise argument.
  • Write at least 5 pages.
  • You may double-space.
  • Include citations and a bibliography in MLA style.
  • Use 12-pt Times New Roman as your font.
  • Use the standard Word margins (left & right: 1-inch, top & bottom: 1.25-inch).
  • Proofread your paper for errors.
  • Don’t cheat, plagiarize, or commit multiple submission.

posted by Duncan Brook - April 1, 2008