9/24/08 BR- How would you evaluate the class so far? What do you like or dislike? Do you have any recommendations? Today: Continuing to write your essay

Guns Germs and Steel Writing Assignment (60 points) Why did the world turn out like it did? Why did Columbus sail to the New World instead of the other way around? In this assignment you will critically analyze Jared Diamond’s theory of human development as presented in his work Guns, Germs, and Steel. In your explanation of his theory you must use examples from the film or our class discussion as evidence to support your writing. Explain Jared Diamond’s theory of geographic luck and how it has affected the development of human civilization.

Your paper must follow these guidelines: - 3 double spaced pages, typed in Times New Roman, 12 pt. font. 1 inch margins with numbered pages. - A cover sheet with your name, title of the paper, and the date. - A draft of your paper is due on Thursday, September The final draft will be due on Friday, October 3. - You will also be asked to hand in any prewriting materials such as outlines or video guides - Use proper writing style and suggestions from the presentation - Plagiarism is strictly forbidden!

◊Prewriting: (what you do before you write) 1. Look at the writing prompt. Circle key terms and underline words that will help you answer the question. 2. Look at your notes, the graphic organizers and the video guides. 3. Sketch an rough outline of your essay including the introduction, body and conclusion. 4. Write an introduction paragraph. This must include your thesis statement and mention what your main supporting arguments will be. Make It a goal for today to write an introduction paragraph - I will be happy to check it before you go! ◊Prewriting: (what you do before you write) 1. Look at the writing prompt. Circle key terms and underline words that will help you answer the question. 2. Look at your notes, the graphic organizers and the video guides. 3. Sketch an rough outline of your essay including the introduction, body and conclusion. 4. Write an introduction paragraph. This must include your thesis statement and mention what your main supporting arguments will be. Make It a goal for today to write an introduction paragraph - I will be happy to check it before you go!

Assignment for Thursday Hand in or your 1 st draft.