On Wed, Apr 19, 2017 at 11:22 AM, GM Writers Ten <[email protected]> wrote:

Casebook Project

For this ongoing project, closely follow an issue over the next several weeks in Washington D.C Region and cut or print out the articles you find pertaining to it. From there, you will choose five (5) articles and/or op-ed pieces and write a 1-2-page response for each publication including a full citation of the source, a summary of the article and a detailed analysis of its significance and how it is evolving over time. Is this a controversial issue? What is the controversy? Who is involved in the issue and what are their positions?

You should try to discuss the article’s assumptions, biases, and implications. The bulk of your write-ups should be centered on analysis. As you complete your responses and read additional articles, feel free to compare/contrast them with previous entries. This exercise is called recursive writing, that is, you generate more ideas by referring to your previous writing. At the end of the semester, your casebook will comprise five (5) entries and will be submitted for a grade.

A casebook is often effective when a topic regarding a local issue is explored. For instance, there have been a lot of changes and initiatives recently in developing programs to address homelessness in the District of Columbia. You may want to read some articles outlining what changes are being made to these programs. From there, you can discuss why you think these initiatives might be successful or why you disagree that they would work. Local writers like Colbert King constantly follow the political beat and report on alleged corruption in Washington. You might follow a story regarding corruption charges against a local official or a civic issue (e.g. education, law enforcement, or healthcare). Or, you can examine an issue in education. The possibilities, as they say, are endless. Please remember that the only topics you may not choose are those related to sports and entertainment.

Here is a checklist for each casebook entry:

2 points (Full citation in MLA format).

3 points (Brief summary to bring the reader up to speed).

5 points (Discussion/Analysis regarding the topic).

Casebook Final Due: April 25th.

Your final grade for the project will concern the following item:

50 points (5 Casebook Entries)