Intro to Writing

Video Description:

1. Review the concepts in the "History Writing 101" video by clicking on this link

Text Analysis:

1. Click on this link to read an article titled, "Why We Should Study the History of Western Civilization," by Donald Kagan

2. Click here to read the Summary of Ian Morris’ Why the West Rules… For Now

Written Assignment:

Using the articles above, what we have discussed in class, or additional scholarly resources, answer ONE the following in a 3-5 paragraph essay:

Prompt 1: Should modern students continue studying the history of Western Civilization, or should students focus on Core Perspectives of history (more of a global approach).

Prompt 2: Has Western Civilization reached its zenith, and is it headed for a steady decline as East Asia rises to prominence?

Prompt 3: What would you argue are the most important factors leading to the rise of a civilization in world history? What factors do you think our modern society should fear or avoid as predictions of societal collapse?

NOTE: EVERY short answer response you write this year should accomplish the following:

• Open your first paragraph with a THESIS that sets up your argument to answer the question (essentially this is your answer in one sentence).

• You should fill the rest of your response with specific, detailed information that answer the question and supports/proves your THESIS.

• You should use at least one short quote attributed to the source to which you are responding. (EX: According to Kagan, ‘quote quote quote, quote quote.”)

• You should include a discussion of the source’s thesis or its impact and importance.

• You should conclude your response with a closing statement.