Overview

Your final paper for this course will be an analytical essay that critically engages with a primary source to explore a specific argument or interpretation. For this assignment, your task is to select a primary source that will serve as the foundation for your final paper, justify your selection, and propose your intended research focus.

Instructions

1. Choose a Primary Source
   Select a primary source that is relevant to an aspect of jazz you wish to address in your final paper.
   
   
2. Write a Proposal
   Submit a 2-page proposal (approximately 500 words) that includes the following components:

a. Description of the Source

2. Provide basic details about the primary source (e.g., title, author/creator, date of creation).
3. Include a summary of its content and context.

b. Relevance to Your Final Paper

2. Explain why you chose this source.
3. Describe how it connects to the themes or questions of this course.

c. Research Question or Thesis Idea

2. Identify a question or focus you plan to explore in your paper.
3. Explain how the primary source will help you answer this question or develop your argument.
   
   

Assessments: Your proposal will be assessed based on:

• Clarity and Focus: Is your chosen source clearly described? Is your research question/thesis idea specific and focused?
• Relevance: Does the source align with the course themes and the final paper objectives?
• Engagement: Do you demonstrate thoughtful engagement with your source and its context?
• Writing Quality: Is the proposal well-organized, free of errors, and formatted correctly?

Submission Details

• Submit your proposal as a Word document or PDF via Brightspace
• Include your name, course title, and assignment title at the top of the document.

Download: Music 121 primary sources assignment