JILL FIELDS, DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY CSU FRESNO

HISTORY/WOMEN'S STUDIES 101: U.S. WOMEN'S HISTORY

Nancy Woloch, Women and the American Experience (concise edition)

Faith Baldwin, Skyscraper Souls

Baxandall & Gordon, editors, Dear Sisters: Dispatches from the Women’s Liberation Movement

Course Assignments:

1) Thoughtful reading of assigned texts by dates noted.

2) Class attendance and participation (10% of grade). Class participation includes contributions to class discussions, and may also include in-class quizzes given at the discretion of the professor. Consistent attendance is expected, including Library Workshop February 4. If you miss class, you remain responsible for materials covered, including possible schedule changes.

3) 1-2 page papers assigned to prepare for all book/reading discussions, such as discussion questions, selection and analysis of significant quotes, or summaries. (10% of grade total for all discussion assignments). Due the day we discuss each reading assignment.

4) Two mid-term essay and term identification examinations based upon lectures, required readings, films, and discussions (each exam 20% of final grade). Due March 16 and April 27.

5) Primary research report (10% of grade). A 3-4 page report summarizing a newspaper or magazine article on an event in women’s history of your choice. Students will sign up for due dates and present their findings in class. This assignment may also be on the topic of your research paper.

6) A 1-2 page description of your research paper topic and preliminary list of sources. (5% of grade). Due April 1.

7) A 10-12 page research paper on a women’s history topic of your choice utilizing primary and secondary sources (25% of grade). Due May 17 (2-3:15 and 3:30-4:45).

All papers must be typed, double-spaced with standard margins (1-2 page assignments may be single-spaced), proof-read, spell-checked, include page numbers, and be turned in on time to be eligible for full credit. Papers more than one week late will not be accepted. Grades are based on an assessment of both the content and form of each paper. Criteria for this assessment include:

                                -- the accuracy and relevance of historical information presented

                                -- the quality of analysis and thoughtful interpretation of this evidence

                                -- the organization and construction of your argument

                                -- the clarity of expression and eloquence of your writing

Grammatical errors of a basic nature undermine the accuracy, clarity, and persuasive force of your paper, and therefore lower the grade given to your paper. Original thinking, passionate engagement with the text and topic, succinct phrasing, and creative use of language which enhance the presentation of your evidence and the power of your argument raise the grade assigned.

Course Participation

10% of your overall grade is based on class participation. This emphasis is designed to encourage all students to take an active part in creating the content and form of our study of U.S. women’s history this semester. Every student has the opportunity to contribute to the success of the class and to the education of fellow students. Participation in class discussions can include asking questions, venturing opinions, and posing hypotheses. Students are also encouraged to bring additional information into our discussions by sharing areas of expertise and relevant personal experience. Exceptional class attendance and outstanding participation will result in extra credit being added to your final course grade.

The grade for the course may be based upon more than just the mathematical calculation of grades received on required assignments. Class participation which demonstrates a strong engagement with the content and texts, improvement in the quality of analysis and writing over the course of the semester, and evidence of intellectual development can all contribute to your final grade.