You are to focus on an individual from American History whose life and contributions fit into the century (roughly) spanned by the life of Miss Jane Pittman. (Civil war through civil rights era 1860-1965)

This is to be an essay, not a lengthy report. It should be the product of good research, clear focus, and careful and specific writing. It should not be the product of copying from various sources or downloading from the internet. It should be an essay that places the individual in the context of the time in which he or she lived, and tells specifically what the individual is remembered as, or for, or for having contributed to American life/history.

Along with your paper, you will prepare a bibliography, a persuasive presentation, and a visual.

All planning, notes, drafting, revisions, and finals will be turned in.

The Format
Introduction: Identify the individual and describe him/her in the context of the focus century. Let the reader know what to expect regarding the content of your paper. Hint at the reason your subject is remembered and the importance of his/her contribution to our present way of life.

Body: Provide biographical information in an interesting manner. Particularly focus on important influences/circumstances in the individual’s life. Include information about the individual’s passions, concerns, and his/her outstanding character traits. (This will probably be 1-2paragraphs.)

Describe the individual’s significant contributions to life as we know it. Why is that person remembered? What are his/her lasting gifts to us? (Think: inspiration, change in society, advances in technology, leadership in a particular area…) (This will probably be 2-3 paragraphs)
Note: Be sure to use varied sentence structure and make logical transitions and be concise!! (This doesn’t mean to “make it short,” but it does mean avoid repeating yourself and make what you write count!) You must include a minimum of 3 citations (quote) and you must use a minimum of 3 sources; only one source may be the internet if needed. Use books first, then try online.

Conclusion: Restate the major points of your essay. Emphasize the most important ideas or impressions that you want the reader of your paper to remember. End with a memorable remark.

Bibliography- You must turn in a bibliography with your essay. We will go over the correct way to do these.
You will also turn in your working bibliographies which will go in you portfolio, too.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
Purpose and Audience (15)
Focus is clearly established and maintained
Introduction is clear and engaging
Development and support (15)
Quotes several sources in appropriate places
Thorough bibliography and citing
Organization (15)
Strong, logical focus from beginning to end
All points are clearly presented and supported with details
Sentences, Language, Correctness (10)
Varied sentence structure, control of fragments/run-ons
Language is appropriate and purposeful
Correct spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and grammar
Draft and all “parts”: (15)
Outline (10)
I will collect other parts as we go and will do “draft checks” periodically
Working bibliographies will be collected ¬________________________