Explain why we need African American History?

HIS-106 AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
Professor George Higgins J.D. Spring 2022
Assignment 1: Why do we need African American History?-10%
This assignment is meant to develop and sharpen your critical thinking (originality, creativity, and independent thinking) and to allow me to gage where your writing skills are. Reaction papers are also called response papers, position papers, or even analysis papers. I want to hear your own voice, not something you have heard or read. These reaction essays will be based on the topics we discuss in class.
https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/florida-school-district-cancels-professors-civil-rights-lecture-critic-rcna13183
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2022/01/florida-sb-148-racism-discomfort
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2022/148/?Tab=BillText
https://youtu.be/8hClszoD-pM 26:50-36:00

As we conclude our discussion on the importance of Black History, you will be writing about your position and answer the following:
A: Do you believe that some or all of the elements of Critical Race Theory should be taught at all levels of education? Why or why not?
B: What are your thoughts on the passage of state laws that place boundaries on what can and can’t be taught in history classes? Explain.
C: Explain your thoughts on the James Baldwin speech “Living and growing in a white world.” Do you feel that it relates to the issue in Florida and the overall teaching of history in America?
D: Any other thoughts/comments on anything we discussed on this topic.
Your reaction paper should contain these elements:
Define the Issue: How do you see the issue? Perhaps some aspects are more important than others, choose those aspects on which you will be able to state a clear and concise opinion.
Formulate and clarify your position: This should be a little more than a simple statement of your opinion. Prove a controversial point, critique a flawed assumption, and demonstrate that you have an accurate understanding of the competing or opposing views. I want you to Convince me, persuade me to buy into your argument.
Defend your position: Identify the most important argument needed to support your position. Provide the facts and information which helps make your case. New and creative arguments rather than traditional ones will be appreciated. Be clear, logical, and consistent.
Lastly, conclude: Sum up your argument in a clear and precise manner. While reading your paper, I should not have any doubt as to where you stand. If you are on the fence on a particular issue/discussion, speak to that in your paper and explain why you are in the middle.
Format
The paper should be long enough to accomplish an analysis without padding. Usually this means 2-3 typed, double-spaced pages. (500-750 if you are counting).
It should not be your first draft. Have someone read it and critique it, and then revise and submit it. Proofread, proofread, proofread.
It should be headed by a title page that should include the following:
Your own title for the paper followed by a “reaction to” the topic assigned
By: your name
HIS 105, Union County College, Fall 2021
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