INSTRUCTIONS
CHIC 4301 FINAL EXAM
INTRODUCTION: The purpose of the final exam is to allow you to not only obtain information and knowledge about Chicana/o legal history, but also transition you into thinking about what you do with this knowledge. You will write a (8-10 pages double-spaced) persuasive/argumentative essay. A persuasive/argumentative essay uses reason to show that one idea is more legitimate than another idea. It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a certain point of view or to take a particular action. This type of essay must present evidence, facts, empirical data, statistics, theories, or examples, in order to defend one’s claims. You are required to use data you have gathered from your readings over the course of the semester. Outside research is welcomed, but you will be graded on how well you summarize, integrate, and utilize information from the required readings from this course.
ESSAY QUESTION: The Sumpreme Court is deciding a case to eliminate affirmative action in the U.S. The reason for the elimination is that there is no longer a need for race based programs that seek to remedy inequalities throughout the U.S. Based on the readings you have had in this course, your role is to explain 1) the struggle for rights by the Chicana/o people, 2) the history of the Chicano Movement, 3) the politics of law and trials, and how these elements combine to reveal the importance of keeping Affirmative action in the U.S. You will be graded on your ability to connect the required readings from class to your argument. Please provide concrete examples from the readings to defend your claims.
DIRECTIONS: Please submit your Final Exam Essay (8 to 10 pages double-spaced) in the assignment dropbox located in the assignments tab of blackboard in the final exam section.
ASSIGNMENT GUIDELINES
The guidelines for the assignments are as follows:
-8-10 pages in length
‐Double‐spaced
-Using Times New Roman 12pt Font
-Please no messing with the margins
-Formal grammar, syntax and organization are expected
-Citations are required using the APA or MLA format
PERSUASIVE/ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY INFORMATION
Steps:
1. Write your thesis statement
2. Gather background information on the topic (from readings)
3. Gather and organize evidence
4. Connect supporting evidential claims
5. Anticipate counterarguments
6. Refute arguments opposed to your view
7. Conclude by restating your argument and thesis
Structure:
Introduction
Thesis Statement
Background Information
Body
Supporting Evidence #1
Supporting Evidence #2
Supporting Evidence #3
Counterargument
Conclusion
Restate and readdress Thesis Statement
Tips:
• Provide a clear, concise, and defined thesis statement in the introduction
• Include clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion
• Provide background information in order to describe the issue at hand
• Give concrete examples for your supporting evidence
• Conclusion does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided
