Assignments – What other contemporary films or videos come to mind and why in terms of black women’s representations

Pick a specific scene from Set It Off and explain how it does or does not suggest “step(ping) up or speak(ing) out against gender exploitation” (Pough 80) or how it disrupts gangs (Smith-Shomade). Explore the way the music, settings, lights or other relevant aspects of mise en scene are part of your explanation and then compare this to any other film in the module. Optional: What other contemporary films or videos come to mind and why in terms of black women’s representations? Remember the responses are an opportunity for a somewhat informal discussion but you still must offer an academic perspective so be sure to include a citation. The questions above are a starting point — pick ONE focus and go into depth.**Discussion/essay assignments are ways to discuss course ideas and do and compare analysis with your classmates. You will use the skill practiced in the discussion essays to hone your skills in the final paper. In these short 500 word essays, you must address the topic and indicate an informed knowledge of course ideas and materials. Include citations where appropriate.This is generally the format of what your paper should look like.Paragraph 1 — introduction to tell me where you are going. This paragraph includes or starts with a specific distinct thesis that states exactly what you plan to argue. It does not say “I will discuss…” Instead, state your argument and move on to prove it. If I have to wait until the end of the paper to figure out what your point is, you have already failed. Some students put the thesis sentence in italics or bold it. If you want to do this that’s fine. It helps me zero in immediately on what you will argue and may help you keep track of your focus.Paragraphs 2-5 — justifications. Each subsequent paragraph proves some part of your thesis. They start with and include sub assertions. These sub assertions introduce related bits of evidence and are in effect a mini thesis that makes a refined point about SOME aspect of the thesis. In other words, it pinpoints a specific part of the thesis and explains why the information you present is relevant. After the sub assertion, include your evidence — an example, quote, and citation, for example. You must include examples from the narrative. You can combine justifications in paragraphs as long as they relate to the sub assertion, which on a larger scale connects to the thesis. Start each new paragraph with new sub assertions and justification that highlights a another different part of the thesis. Continue until all parts of your thesis are illustrated and justified. Adjust your thesis if need be.Final Paragraph — add some deeper insight. You started with a thesis — what additional intellectual points can you add that both reflects the original thesis but seems to carry your initial concept further?It is important to realize grading will start with a look at the thesis. Does it make sense? Does it reference theory? Is it complicated enough or merely trite? From there I will look at each paragraph to see how they support parts of the thesis. Are you just rambling, trying to fill up space or is this part of a thoughtful analysis? Look at the links in this section and others if you need help. I look for textual and visual/scenic proof, for academic support and for logical arguments. Is the information inaccurate? If not, this tells me you did not read the material or view the video. Did you use in-text citations including the URLs? I actually look much of this up and I check your works cited to see if you used a style that provides enough information. These is a 300 level course and everyone is expected to step up to the plate. Look into the various university sites that offer tutoring if necessary. Links to UA sites are provided in the content section.