All assignments should reflect close and critical engagement with the topics, concepts and ideas raised in the assigned materials. Assignments are to be submitted to this CUNY Academic Commons site. Below is a brief description of each, find all instructions and guidance under each section.

Weekly In-Class Writing (30 pts, handwritten)

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)

You will select a song that represents, in your perspective, the concept of “Love.” You 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)

You will select one example of Forbidden Love that is not already presented in the class. You will then conduct research about the personal and contextual factors around this example of forbidden love. To build a robust case study, this assignment draws from archival methodologies made available through the library and Open Educational Resources. 

Final Project & Presentation (25 pts)

For your project, you will create an artistic piece that explores and discusses some aspect of forbidden love that we have covered in the readings/homework/discussions from this class.