Writing Assignment #1
DUE DATE: Friday, 24 October, at the beginning of class

"By the early twentieth century, the authority of science was virtually unchallenged in the Western world. The public came to appreciate the value of scientific expertise in promoting social, technological, and economic progress. In short, science gained a power and prestige far beyond the wildest dreams of the scientists themselves."

Based on your understanding of Buck v. Bell and the Scopes trial, analyze the above quote. What role did the authority of science play in these two landmark cases from the 1920s? Do they support the claims made above? Why or why not? Be sure to demonstrate an awareness of the larger contexts of these two trials (including the eugenics movement and the evolution/creation controversy). And be sure to include specific evidence from the readings, discussions, and films, to support your assertions. Keep direct quotes to a minimum, however, and cite them with the author and page number in parentheses following the quote (Paul 113). You do not need to use footnotes.

Your essay is to be typed and about 4 pages, double spaced (ca. 1000 words). It should be concise, well-organized, and clearly written. Your paper should also have an introduction that presents your argument (= thesis), a body that explains your argument and presents appropriate evidence, and a conclusion. It should consist of tightly focused, well-developed paragraphs, each of which has a topic sentence (the main point or argument to be pursued in the paragraph). Paragraphs that are too short (generally less than 3 sentences) or too long and unfocused (with too many ideas jumbled together) should be avoided. The paper should reflect a thoughtful consideration of all appropriate course material related to the topic. And of course, it should be as error free as possible: all words should be correctly spelled, all constructions grammatically correct, and all punctuation appropriately used. Please proof read your paper carefully! Your grade will be based on content and presentation.

If you would like further guidance on how to write effectively, I would suggest a quick read through William Strunk and E. B. White's Elements of Style. You are also welcome to use the services of the Writing Center at 205 Williams Hall (231-5436). And, of course, I would be happy to speak with you about the assignment.