Individual Research Project

Sounds of Social Movements

Final Essay – 100 points

1500-words

Brief, rubric

70% of your grade will be based on -> content - how well does the essay draw connections between popular music and a social and/or political movement. Should have a clear statement of topic. Should include some historical background context on topic, i.e., social/political issue in general. Should include some broad context on how popular music has played a role in this movement. Should include multiple analyses of songs, including lyrics (genre, overall sound). Should include at least one musical artist.

10% based on - clarity, organization; writing should be clear and easy to understand. The structure of the essay should be clear and easy to follow. Needs a logical flow of ideas. Could be chronological but not necessarily. Could move from broad context to specific examples, but not necessarily. May want to use subheadings such as intro, section headings, conclusion, etc.

10% based on - mechanics; use of correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc.

10% references - Needs to include in-text citations (at least 5), and a list of references (i.e., works cited, bibliography). Needs at least 5 total references, 2 of which need to be academic/scholarly books and/or journal articles. Note, if the essay does not include any references, it will be a zero, because it will not qualify as research.