2388 offers you a number of choices to make in regards to your writing assignments. During the course of the semester, you will have to pick three of these assignments and, by appropriate times marked on the syllabus, turn in these assignments:

9-29	Essay 1 Due
10-29	Essay 2 Due
12-3	Essay 3 Due

While the various assignments can be done to fufill any of the essay requirements over the course of the semester, it would be wise to consider only doing assignments whose basis we have covered in class already; it might be more or less appropriate to hold off on the motif-level analysis or the media comparison until the third assignment. It might be similarly prudent to wait until the second assignment to try the IMDB comment. Additionally, you may only do each assignment once during the semester.

There are several common elements that are required in each assignment.

Each assignment needs to be well written. One implication of this need is that your writings need to be coherent short essays, organized around some general principle. An obvious organizational structure and a coherent thesis are necessary components of a stylistically well formed assignment.

Additionally, "well written" also means that each assignment needs to use proper grammar and correct style, as well as adhere to the MLA style guide. With the exception of the IMDB user comment, all assignments should be turned in double-spaced with 1" margins, and printed in an appropriate font. The following header should be used on the fist page of each paper:

Your Name

ENGL 2388.002 or 003

John Reeve

Date

This heading should be immediately followed by a centered title appropriate for the your writing. As per the MLA guide, each subsequent page needs to have your name and a page number in the heading of the document, a features which assures that you paper stays together throughout the grading process.

The assignments do not need works-cited sheets; since they focus on close readings of specific texts, it should be made obvious in your writing which film you are describing, and your work should not be reliant on other research in a way that would require citation.

Deviation from these format requirements may be penalized, especially in the second and third essays.

Each assignment needs to be submitted by the start of class on the dates listed above; while it is permissible to submit an electronic copy if you are unable to attend class on an assignment's due date, it is more appropriate to hand in your printed work in class on that due date. Even if you do submit an electronic copy, with the exception of the "IMDB assignment" a printed copy needs to be turned in as soon as possible.

Late penalties will be applied without exception, regardless of circumstance. 10 points will be deducted form the overall grade of the assignment for each class period that starts without the work having been turned in. For instance, if you do not turn in a second assignment at the start of class on 10-29, then there will be a 10-point deduction; on each subsequent class date, there will be another 10-point deduction.

I am available to answer questions via email, and at my office hours. I am also willing to look over drafts of your essay before you turn them in, but I prefer to do so only in person in my office. I highly recommend the services available through the University Writing Center.