Download a copy of the assignment sheet here: ellis-jason-eng2420-finalpaper, or read below.

ENG2420 Science Fiction

Essay Project/Final Paper

Dr. Jason Ellis

 

For this project, which is due on the last day of class, write a 1,250-word essay arguing why or why not a cultural artifact of your choosing is science fiction. Your essay should present your argument clearly, support your argument with your own analysis and the words of others, and properly cite the words of others challenging or supporting your argument’s position as a part of your discussion.

 

The cultural artifact that you choose must be connected to our understanding of science fiction tangentially or explicitly, and it must not be an example taken from our syllabus. The cultural artifact can be a novel, electronic literature, a short story, a music album, a video game, a poem, a television show, a play, a film, etc.

 

To support your argument, your essay should quote at least two definitions of science fiction taken from the list of definitions handout (also available on our OpenLab site under resources), and at least two library sources (books, databases, journals, or periodicals obtained through the library or library’s website).

 

All quoted material must be parenthetically cited and listed on a Works Cited list at the end of your essay (the Works Cited list does not count toward your 1,250 words). Additional sources such as interviews, YouTube videos, and other Internet sources are acceptable as long as they are properly explained, cited, and documented. Remember: We are using MLA style.

 

As part of your argument, you might compare the subject of your essay with other examples of science fiction that we have discussed or that you know about.

 

When you have decided on the subject of your essay, you should clear it with Professor Ellis before preceding with your research and writing. He might have ideas and suggestions to help you write a strong essay.

 

As you develop your essay, feel free to share your writing with Professor Ellis by email or during office hours for feedback.

 

It is recommended that you not save this work for the end of the semester. A good rule of thumb would be to have a draft of your essay completed after the semester break. This will give you plenty of time to revise and eventually copyedit your work well before the due date.

 

Good luck on your semester-long project! I look forward to reading your arguments!