You have six writing assignments due for this class. The lowest grade will be dropped. The purpose of these assignments is to help you focus your reading for the class and to provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate your analytical and writing skills. You are to choose one of the following themes to focus on: race, gender, class, environment, politics, or economics.

After doing the reading for each week, consider how your theme has shaped, and been shaped by, history. Look for examples of your theme in the reading and what these examples combined tell you about your theme during the time period being discussed. As we progress in the semester, you will also want to consider how your theme has changed over time. You should then write 1 ½-2 pages (typed) on your conclusions. Keep in mind that I am looking for your analysis, backed up by supporting evidence from the book. Be sure to include specific examples to support your assertions. You grade will be based upon a combination of content and writing mechanics (spelling, grammar, etc.)