GUIDE TO THE COURSE
Scope of the Course
This course argues that slavery and race played central roles in shaping
the course of American History. It explores slavery's roots in western
culture and it shows how slavery was central to events like the writing
of the Constitution and the coming of the Civil War. The course goes
on to explore the way racial issues have continued to have a shaping effect
on America down to our own time.
Aims of the Course
In addition to seeking to enhance your knowledge of a crucial aspect
of American social history, this course aims at helping you to develop
your skills in the following areas:
Weighting and Deadlines for Graded Assignments
| % of
Grade |
Date
Due |
|
| Four Page Paper | 10% | Feb. 7 |
| Eight Page Paper | 25% | Apr. 17 |
| Midterm Examination | 20% | Feb 28 |
| Final Examination | 20% | May 1, 2:00 PM |
| Class Participation inc. Discus | 25% |
The Requirements Explained
Four Page Paper.
For this assignment you are to write a four page source report which uses the narrative of Frederick Douglass and at least two other primary sources to describe some aspect of the slave system (like family relations, work, education, or punishment). Your paper MUST use eyewitness materials produced by slaves and slaveholders. See handout entitled "Guide to Doing Papers" for further details.
Eight Page Paper.
This paper will be on a topic of your choosing that relates to some aspect of the history of race in America. In this paper you must use no fewer than three primary or contemporary sources. See handout entitled "Guide to Doing Papers" for further details. When handing in this assignment YOU MUST HAND BACK IN THE MARKED UP COPIES OF YOUR FIRST PAPER.
Midterm Examination.
This examination will consist exclusively of essay questions.
Final Examination.
This examination will consist exclusively of essay questions.
About Discus Participation
On eight or ten occasions over the course the semester I will initiate conversations on Discus. All students are required to participate in these conversations. My initiating remarks will be aimed at getting you to engage in discussion about some of the things you have been reading about or hearing about in class Discus participation is required and graded. If you are completely new to Discus you should come to see me early in the semester to I can introduce you to it.
Policies Regarding Attendance and Late Papers
Each student is allowed four free cuts. Use them wisely. Use them when you are sick, when there is a family emergency and when you have a conflict with this class (e.g. a game away from Hope or a performance) or for when you can't stand the idea of coming to class. But remember that if you use them up early in the semester you won't have any left when you really need them later. Cuts beyond four will affect your grade.
Papers should be completed on time. In cases where assignments
are late the grade may be lowered or I may return it with only a grade
but with no comments.
Office Hours
My office is in Lubbers Hall, room 339. I am there Mon. 3:00-5:00, Wed. 3:00-4:00, and Thurs. 10:00-12:00. I can also be seen by appointment. Please come by to discuss history or anything else. Especially, please come by if you are having difficulties with the readings. I really can help.
Other Resources:
Syllabus
Guide
to Papers
Slavery,
A Selected Bibliography
Discus
Email: cohen@hope.edu