short paper 3
please follow instruction and rubric very carefully…
LIT 500 Module Three Short Paper Guidelines and Rubric
You have now been introduced to all of the theories that will be discussed in this course. In this short paper, you will compose a brief analysis in which you
compare the impact of the diverse theoretical approaches that can be used to interpret Heart of Darkness. You will select two of the four theoretical schools
studied in this course and assess how elements of Joseph Conrads text may be viewed through these perspectives. You may explore elements such as plot
development, theme, imagery, language use/discourse, character development, and so on. How do your two chosen theories change your perspective on
Conrads novella? Which theory do you think is most effective and why?
Keep the following in mind:
You should emphasize the analysis of Conrads text and avoid plot summaries, reportage, and value judgments.
Use two of the four theoretical perspectives to conduct the theoretical analysis.
Utilize a comparative theoretical approach, with equal use of both perspectives in the analysis of well-selected (selected by you) passages from the text.
Apply the theoretical perspectives in an analysis of the text. Make sure you are not summarizing or discussing the theories. They should be used only to
analyze Conrads novella.
Clearly state which theory you think is the most effective in analyzing Conrads novella. Make sure to include your reasons and point to specific examples
that illustrate your choice.
This assignment will help prepare you for your final project. Think of it as a short practice run.
Guidelines for Submission: Your paper must be submitted as a two-page Microsoft Word document with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, one-
inch margins, and at least three sources cited in MLA format.
Critical Elements Proficient (100%) Needs Improvement (70%) Not Evident (0%) Value
Theories Utilizes two theories discussed in the
course in the analysis of well-selected
passages and avoids plot summaries,
reportage, and value judgments
Utilizes two theories discussed in the
course, but the passages are not well
selected, or includes plot summaries,
reportage, and/or value judgments
Does not utilize two theories discussed in
the course in the analysis of selected
passages
30
Analysis Applies the theoretical perspectives in an
analysis of the text and avoids summarizing
or discussing the theories
Applies the theoretical perspectives in the
analysis of the text but does include a
summary or discussion of the theories
outside of the analysis of Conrads novella
Does not apply the theoretical perspectives
in an analysis of the text
30
Effectiveness States which theory is the most effective in
analyzing Conrads novella, includes
reasons for this choice, and utilizes specific
examples to illustrate choice
States which theory is most effective in
analyzing Conrads novella and includes
reasons for this choice but does not utilize
specific examples to illustrate choice
States which theory is most effective in
analyzing Conrads novella but does not
include reasons for this choice
30
Writing Mechanics Submission remains in the formal third
person, has no major errors related to
citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or
organization
Submission mostly remains in the formal
third person and/or has major errors
related to citations, grammar, spelling,
syntax, or organization that negatively
impact readability and articulation of main
ideas
Submission frequently employs the first or
second person and has critical errors
related to citations, grammar, spelling,
syntax, or organization that prevent
understanding of ideas
10
Earned Total 100%
