Instructions
Source and critique an article from a peer-reviewed journal, a 30-minute scholarly documentary film or a case study on any of the following topics:
– Capitalism as a World System;
– Sustainable Development;
– Globalization;
– The Debt Crisis; and
– Structural Adjustment
Guidelines
1. In your review, please evaluate assumptions, ideals and predictions.
2. In your own words, discuss your views of the article, case study or film.
3. Review the article, case study or film more than once, and make notes of your impressions. Highlight parts which you may use for quoting. Support your quotes with citations. Ask yourself these questions as you review the article/case study or video presentation:
What are the main argument and conclusion?
Do I agree with them? Why or why not?
How does the article/case study/documentary film support or not support my understanding of development?
What is the author’s/filmmaker’s purpose?
Does the article/case study or documentary film provide a methodology?
Is this information well researched, or well supported? Explain
Is the article/case study or documentary film organized logically to convince me of its findings or solutions? Explain.
Does the content show bias or a subjective approach? What sources did the author use? What sources should the author also consider which could have been helpful?
Critically discuss the implications of any natural disaster (hurricane, earthquake, pandemic, etc.) on the topic you have chosen for discussion. In your reflection, consider the possible implications on the Caribbean region in relation to your choice of topic.
5. Your paper must not exceed 3,000 words (excluding references) and you are required to use size 12 pt. font.
Mark Scheme for Critical Review Paper (45% weighting or 100 marks)
Total/100 X 45
Introduction 25 marks
Identification of topic, the author, title, thesis/argument and purpose accurately. Introduces the context of the author’s argument and its timeliness appropriately. Summarizes the literature review clearly and appropriately. Develops three (3) clear and logical main points with originality to originality to discuss your argument.
Body 15 marks
Interpretation and critical thinking in providing an overview of the article. Develops 3 main points in clear detail to show how these relate to the author’s reasons or evidence for the article’s conclusion.
Critically examines the implicit and explicit issues of the discourse upon which the article is centred.
Analysis of author’s justification (Evaluation) 20 marks
Identifies accurately and analyses thoroughly how the author justifies the purpose of the study and declares the main argument. Questions information or opinions accurately. Links theory with practice. Points out fully prominent ideas showing they are well supported by details. Discusses relevance, strengths and weaknesses clearly.
Results or findings 15 marks
The student explores gaps in the data amply. Shows that the data are relevant, and that graphs and/or tables are consistent with data and clearly presented.
Conclusion & Summary 15 marks
Shows how the data adequately support the conclusion Discusses clearly the contribution the work has made to the field. Points to all of the theories upon which the author’s conclusion was dependent.
Mechanics of Writing 10 marks
Writes in a sophisticated style. Maintains order in sentence structure throughout. Uses professional language at all times. Contains only two grammar and/or spelling errors. Complies with APA citation style for in-text citations, as well as, references or bibliography 100% of the time.
