Written assignment - Book review (25%)
You are invited to write a critical review on a book of your choice, provided the book deals with some aspect of the history of education and childhood in Canada. The reviews are due on Thursday, October 9th and should run to about 1,000 words (4 pages). Late papers may be penalized 5% per day. For more information, see the assignment guidelines.
Article critiques (10%)
You will be asked to submit a brief critique on two of the assigned readings. Critiques should be written on a 5" x 8" index card and should address these questions: What is the thesis or main argument of the essay? What are the major strengths of the article? What are its apparent weaknesses? A sentence or two on each point should be sufficient. Your critiques should also include a question or questions arising from the reading that you would like classmates to consider when we discuss the article.
Each critique is worth 5 marks. You will earn one (1) mark by identifying the thesis of the article. Identify the thesis by quoting or paraphrasing the author's thesis statement and indicating the page where the statement is presented. You will earn two (2) marks by commenting on the relative merits — that is, the strengths and weaknesses — of the essay. You will earn two [2) marks for suggesting a thoughtful question derived or arising from the article, and for initiating a discussion around the question. No marks will be awarded for cursory or tangential questions and comments. Likewise, you will not earn full marks if your critique cards are not submitted on time or in the required format.
Mid-Term Exam (25%)
The mid-term exam will be written in class on Thursday, October 16th. The mid-term exam will be based on lecture materials and assigned readings from previous weeks.
Final exam (30%)
A two hour exam, to be scheduled by the registrar. Typically, the exam will include short-answer and essay style questions.
Participation (10%)
This mark is based on attendance and active engagement. To earn full marks, you should attend classes and establish a dialogue with the professor; demonstrate that you have read the assigned readings closely; participate in the discussions of the assigned readings and other topics that may be debated in class.
My office is located in the Arts & Humanities building [Building 340], Room 122. My office hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 08:30 -10:00 a.m. I will also be available by appointment at other times.
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