Instructions: Perform an analysis of ONE of the following articles:
“Yes, It’s Okay to Throw Away a Book” by Michelle Cyca (she/her)
“It’s the End of the Web as We Know It” by Judith Donath and Bruce Schneier
“The Diminishing Returns of Having Good Taste” by W. David Marx (he/him)
Your analysis should consider both what the text is saying and how the message is being expressed. Your close reading should be double-spaced, in 12-point font (Calibri or Times New Roman only), and between 1000 and 1200 words. You will be evaluated on the following basis: plausibility of interpretation and analysis of the text; structure of argument; and writing (spelling, grammar and style. Students are required to submit an e- version of their midterms to our D2L Brightspace site. Please submit as .doc or .docx or .pdf only.
Points to consider as you construct your analytical essay:
Start by underlining or highlighting key words and phrases. Note anything that strikes you as surprising or significant, or that raises questions. It is a good idea to make notes in the margins.
Look for patterns in the things you have noticed about the text: repetitions, contradictions,
similarities.
Ask questions about the patterns you have noticed, especially how and why (and so what?)
What’s at stake? Why is the author so motivated to write about this subject?
Does the author use a central argument or example to focus his/her examination of a larger
issue? How? Why?
Organize and come up with an overall argument about what YOU think the text means. Explain HOW that meaning is made (by linking your claims to evidence found in the text).
Warning! Do not produce a plot summary, a simple observation, or a list of ideas from the text. You
need to make claims and arguments about how the passage produces meaning.
Remember: The author’s subject is NOT your subject. The author’s article is your subject. Produce an
analysis of the text. DO NOT produce your own essay on the author’s subject matter or engage in an
argument with the article using your own opinion. Stay analytical. It is a good idea to review the
previously assigned chapters and video lectures as you prepare your essay.
Important: This assignment is a close reading. This is NOT a research assignment. The only evidence you
will use to support your claims is your analysis of the text.
You are required to use either MLA or APA citation style for this assignment. I recommend strongly that
you visit OWL Purdue for assistance with proper in-text citation and bibliographical information.
Instructions: Perform an analysis of ONE of the following articles: “Yes, It’s O
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