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Submit: PDF or Word document (.doc or .docx only)
Assignment Overview
This paper requires you to write a 5-page sociological analysis examining two major course topics and analyzing how they interact to shape social inequality and stratification.
This is an analytical paper, not a summary or opinion piece. You must apply sociological theory and support your argument with academic research.
Paper Requirements
Length & Format
- Minimum 5 full pages (not including references)
- Double-spaced
- 12-point Times New Roman
- 1-inch margins
- Page numbers included
- Submit as PDF or Word document only
Sources & Citations (ASA Required)
- Minimum 5 sources from the course
- Minimum 5 in-text citations
- ASA-style References page required *this is IN ADDITION to the 5 page requirement
INSTRUCTIONS
Choose two major course topics and analyze how they interact to produce or reinforce social inequality.
Possible topics include:
- Economic inequality
- Racial and ethnic stratification
- Institutional racism
- Intersectionality
- Gender inequality
- Education and mobility
- Labor market segmentation
- Gig economy
- Poverty and social welfare
- Classical or modern stratification theories
Your Paper Should Address
- How your two topics reinforce or intersect with one another
- Relevant sociological theories (Marx, Weber, intersectionality, conflict theory, etc.)
- Whether inequalities are structural, institutional, or cultural
- Who benefits and who is disadvantaged
- Long-term consequences for opportunity and mobility
Suggested Structure
I. Introduction
Introduce both topics and present a clear thesis.
II. Topic One Analysis
Define, apply theory, and support with research.
III. Topic Two Analysis
Define, apply theory, and support with research.
IV. Connection Between Topics
Analyze how they interact structurally and theoretically.
V. Conclusion
Summarize your argument and broader implications.
Grading Rubric (40 Points Total)
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Criteria
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Excellent (87 pts)
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Proficient (65 pts)
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Developing (43 pts)
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Limited (20 pts)
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Thesis & Argument (8 pts)
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Clear, strong, analytical thesis sustained throughout
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Thesis present but somewhat descriptive or unclear
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Weak or inconsistent thesis; mostly summary
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No clear thesis
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Application of Theory (8 pts)
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Strong integration of sociological theory; applied accurately and analytically
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Theory used but not fully developed
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Minimal or partially inaccurate theory use
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No theoretical application
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Depth of Analysis (8 pts)
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Demonstrates deep analysis; moves beyond description
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Some analysis but partially descriptive
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Mostly summary
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No meaningful analysis
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Sources & ASA Format (8 pts)
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5+ academic sources; 5+ in-text citations; correct ASA formatting
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Minor citation or formatting errors
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Fewer than 5 sources or repeated formatting issues
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Missing references page or major citation problems
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Organization & Writing Quality (8 pts)
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Clear structure, strong transitions, academic tone, minimal errors
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Generally clear with minor issues
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Disorganized or frequent writing errors
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Difficult to follow; significant writing issues
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Academic Integrity
All work must be original. Plagiarism or submitting AI-generated papers will result in disciplinary action per university policy.
AI tools may be used for brainstorming or outlining only. The writing, analysis, and citations must be your own.
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