Paper #2 Choose two secondary texts we have read so far and discuss the author’s use of sources. What kind of sources do they use? Newspapers, court records, notarial archives, written, aural, visual? How do they use them to make their arguments? Is it convincing? Does using one kind of source as opposed to another change or shape the historian’s argument? (these are just some guiding questions—you will want to come up with some of your own) 1000 words. Due November 5 in class.

How to write an A paper. I don’t like grading rubrics, because I think they are just another way to make writing a dull chore, and they kill any vestige of creativity and energy that may be left in you after submitting to years of grading rubrics. But there are things that I (and, I can guarantee, many of my colleagues) would like to see in a paper. Here are some of the most important. Cite your sources. If you referred to secondary literature, whether it was a website, article, textbook, you need to cite it, when you are alluding to ideas or arguments derived from it even if you don’t quote it directly. This will help both of us distinguish where your ideas begin and those of others end. The whole point of writing a paper is to entertain the ideas and arguments of others, but to come up with some further arguments or challenges to those ideas on your own. How you cite is up to you. Just be clear and consistent.

Give your essay a structure, let it tell a story. An introduction should draw the reader in and make them want to read more. It should not put the reader to sleep, or merely tell the reader what you are going to do. Use the introduction to raise a question, or pose a problem, or point to a moment in the documents (or events or whatever you’re writing about) that was particularly interesting, problematic, exciting, or contradictory. Once you’ve introduced, the body of the essay can move the reader along in whatever manner you see fit. Use lots of evidence to support your argument. Use words that are provocative, precise, engaging, gritty, sublime, pellucid, erudite, concrete, resonant. Make your sentences move. Use lots of verbs. Avoid the passive voice. If you want to conclude by summarizing what you’ve said, that’s ok. But don’t leave it at that. Use the conclusion to raise new questions, point to broader implications, or, reflect on your methodology and approach. Do not use it to make bland generalizations or platitudes. This is another opportunity to avoid putting your readers to sleep.

Take some risks, make the argument your own, answer the question, enjoy the process, proofread and reread. Imagine posting it online and letting your peers see it, read it aloud. Do not be boring.

I will read and comment on any draft submitted to me between the 29 th and the 2 nd. I will not read any drafts submitted after noon on the 2 nd.