All assignments should reflect serious thought and critical engagement with the issues raised in the assigned materials. Some assignments will be submitted on Brightspace and some on the GC Commons. Below is a brief description of each assignment.

Weekly In-Class Writing (30 pts)

We will begin each class with a short handwritten writing prompt based on the week’s materials. We advise that you take careful notes as you read, listen, and/or watch the materials. You may refer to your notes and the materials while you write.

Responses are worth 3 points each, for a total of 30 points toward your final grade. That’s nearly one-third of your final grade! Responses cannot be made up if you are absent or arrive after the writing period has ended. 

“What is Love?” Song Analysis (5 pts)

Students will select a song that represents, in their perspective, the concept of “Love.” Students will analyze the lyrics of the song and identify aspects of societal norms/expectations, personal experience, or social expectations. Does the song have a realistic view of what love is? Is your song a commercialized representation of love? Is your song what you think love “should” be? Students will share the song and present their analysis to their classmates.

Midterm Case Study Assignment (10 pts)

Students will select one example of Forbidden Love that is not already presented in the class. Students will conduct research about the personal and contextual factors around this example of forbidden love. To build a robust case, this assignment will emphasize library and archival literacy through Open Educational Resources. Details and guidance about how to conduct the “case study” methodology will be provided in class. 

Final Project & Presentation: Utopian/Dystopian Marriage Laws and Relationship Norms (25 pts)

After studying Forbidden Love and its myriad expressions and transgressions throughout the semester, students will craft a written or artistic piece that represents what they think are utopian/dystopian marriage laws/relationship norms. More details and guidelines will be provided.