Category: American Studies

Module 3 Discussion: Freedom and EmpireA Paradox of Democracy

Discuss how Americas expansion abroad after the Spanish-American War both reflected and contradicted democratic ideals. Should the U.S. be viewed as a liberator or imperial power?

In your reply: Choose one point your classmate made and find a short quote or detail from the text that either supports it or raises a question about it. Explain why you chose that evidence.

Required Textbook Foner, Eric, Kathleen DuVal, and Lisa McGirr. Give Me Liberty! An American History, Volume 2: Since 1865(7th Edition)

Overview

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, industrialization transformed the United States from a largely rural nation into an urban, industrial powerhouse. This change had major effects on cities, workers, immigrants, and society as a whole.

In this essay, you will analyze how industrialization shaped urban life in America, both the opportunities it created and the challenges it introduced.

Your Task

Write a well-organized, 35 paragraph essay explaining the impact of industrialization on urban America.

Your essay should:

1. Introduce the topic
   1. Provide background on industrialization in the United States.
   2. End with a clear thesis statement that explains how industrialization affected urban life.
2. Develop body paragraphs that:
   1. Explain social changes (e.g., rise of the working class, immigration, living conditions, labor movements).
   2. Describe economic impacts (e.g., growth of factories, job opportunities, rise of corporations).
   3. Discuss political or reform movements that responded to industrial problems (e.g., labor unions, Progressive Era reforms).
   4. Use specific evidence such as examples, historical facts, or key events to support your ideas.
3. Conclude by summarizing your main points and explaining the long-term significance of industrialization on modern urban America.

Requirements

• Length: 12 pages (typed, double-spaced)
• Font: Times New Roman, 12-point
• Citations: Use at least two sources (textbook, class notes, or credible online resources).
• Tone: Academic and formal, avoid slang or first-person narration.
• Submission: Upload as a Word or PDF document.

What Youll Be Graded On

• Clear thesis statement and focus on the topic
• Depth of historical understanding and analysis
• Quality and accuracy of evidence and examples
• Logical organization and paragraph structure
• Grammar, spelling, and clarity

Grading Scale:

• A (90100): Exceptional insight, well-supported, clear, and polished
• B (8089): Strong understanding, solid evidence, minor issues
• C (7079): Adequate but underdeveloped analysis and organization
• D/F (below 70): Lacks focus, evidence, or clarity

Tip for Success

Think about who benefited and who struggled during industrialization. Consider immigrants, women, factory workers, and city dwellers. Try to connect their experiences to the larger story of Americas growth as an industrial nation.

Rubric

Rubric: The Impact of Industrialization on Urban America

Rubric: The Impact of Industrialization on Urban America

Criteria	Ratings	Pts
This criterion is linked to a learning outcomeThesis & Focus (20 pts)	20 to >18.0 PtsExcellent (A)18 to >16.0 PtsProficient (B) 16 to >12.0 PtsDeveloping (C)12 to >0 PtsNeeds Improvement (D/F)	20 pts
This criterion is linked to a learning outcomeHistorical Understanding (20 pts)	20 to >18.0 PtsExcellent (A)18 to >16.0 PtsProficient (B) 16 to >12.0 PtsDeveloping (C)12 to >0 PtsNeeds Improvement (D/F)	20 pts
This criterion is linked to a learning outcomeUse of Evidence & Examples (20 pts)	20 to >18.0 PtsExcellent (A)18 to >16.0 PtsProficient (B) 16 to >12.0 PtsDeveloping (C)12 to >0 PtsNeeds Improvement (D/F)	20 pts
This criterion is linked to a learning outcomeOrganization & Structure (15 pts)	15 to >13.5 PtsExcellent (A)13.5 to >12.0 PtsProficient (B) 12 to >9.0 PtsDeveloping (C)9 to >0 PtsNeeds Improvement (D/F)	15 pts
This criterion is linked to a learning outcomeAnalysis & Critical Thinking (15 pts)	15 to >13.5 PtsExcellent (A)13.5 to >12.0 PtsProficient (B) 12 to >9.0 PtsDeveloping (C)9 to >0 PtsNeeds Improvement (D/F)	15 pts
This criterion is linked to a learning outcomeWriting Mechanics & Style (10 pts)	10 to >9.0 PtsExcellent (A)9 to >8.0 PtsProficient (B) 8 to >7.0 PtsDeveloping (C)7 to >0 PtsNeeds Improvement (D/F)	10 pts

Total points: 100

Module 2 Discussion: Robber Barons or Captains of Industry?

Were figures like Rockefeller, Carnegie, and Vanderbilt robber barons who exploited workers, or captains of industry who fueled progress? Support your stance with examples from the readings and film.

In your reply: Read through your classmates stance, then research a different business leader from the same era who would also support their stance, be sure to provide a specific example and source.

Week 2 Assignment: Understanding Criminal Justice Models

Due: January 23
Points: 100

Purpose
This assignment helps you understand the two main models of the criminal justice systemcrime control and due processand how they affect decisions in real life.

Instructions
After reading Chapter 1: Fundamentals of Criminal Justice, write a response that answers the questions below. Be sure to use complete sentences and your own words.

1. Explain the Models
   • What is the crime control model?
   • What is the due process model?
2. Compare the Models
   • List two differences between the crime control model and the due process model.
3. Apply to Real Life
   • Choose one area of the criminal justice system (policing, courts, or corrections).
   • Explain how both models could influence decisions in that area.
4. Your Opinion
   • Which model do you think is used more often in todays criminal justice system?
   • Do you think this is a good thing? Why or why not?

Length & Format

• 1.52 pages (double-spaced)
• Times New Roman or Calibri, 12-point font
• 1-inch margins

Submission Instructions
Submit your assignment as a Word document or PDF in Canvas by the due date.

Grading Criteria

• Clear explanation of both models
• Accurate comparison and examples
• Thoughtful reflection
• Writing clarity and effort
• The paper should have the layout as shown abaove
• 0% AI