Description
Purpose: The purpose of this assignment is to begin to use the analysis skills that you have learned in Writing About Literature in a formal academic paper. See the final assignment and grading rubric here.
Directions: In this final draft, you will incorporate the feedback you receive from your instructor to revise you first draft. This paper should be between 300 – 500 words in MLA Format using Times New Roman font and double-spaced.
You will need to include an outline at the beginning or end of your paper to show your train of thought throughout the paper.
See Writing About Literature Chapter 2 pg. 59 – 61 and Chapter 9, pg. 149 – 150 for additional formatting guidance. You can view those items here.
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Introduction:
Background, composers, publication date
Who is the composer of the song? Provide some background on the composers and contributor of the song. When was it published? Does the historical period when the song was published contribute to the song’s publication? If so, how so? Is this a remake of another song or an original work?
Body:
Analysis and Evidence
Instrumentation – What instruments are used? How do they convey meaning and mood?
Parts of the song – Are there different stanzas, verses or chorus that are repeated? How do they contribute to the overall meaning of the song?
Lyrics – Listen to the song a few times and then google the song lyrics. You want to make sure you have the correct lyrics, so find a few versions and listen to the song while you are reading the lyrics as sometimes the written lyrics you find are incorrect.
(Note: You can Google the lyrics, but look at a few versions and listen to the song while you are reading the lyrics as sometimes they are incorrect).
After you have clearly identified the lyrics, think about the following: What is happening in the song? Is there a story with a narrative arc? What is the author’s purpose in writing the song?
Instrumentation vs. Lyrics – Between the instrumentation and the lyrics, which is more important and contribute to the use of the song? Is it more of a song for dancing, contemplation, or action? What parts of the song indicate this?
Conclusion:
Final thoughts – Why did you select this song?
Why do you like the song? Use the basis of your analysis for your response. What did you learn from your research about the song? Has this research expanded your enjoyment of the song? How so or why not?
Citation: Please see this example for proper citation
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on your Works Cited Page.
For additional Citation assistance see the Writing About Literature Chapter on MLA Documentation
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. (https://guides.library.unr.edu/mlacitation/cite-songs)
If you need assistance, use this link to review examples of song analysis –
(Links to an external site.)
See the rubric below for how you will be graded.
Class Playlist Essay Part II Final Draft
Class Playlist Essay Part II Final Draft
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome
MLA Format
3.0 pts
Meets Standard
2.0 pts
Below Standard
1.0 pts
Well Below Standard
0.0 pts
No Marks
3.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome
Includes an Outline
2.0 pts
Meets Standard
1.0 pts
Partial Credit
0.0 pts
No Marks
2.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome
Introduction
Includes the title of the song, artist, publication date and gives details of the historical context in which the song was created.
4.0 pts
Exceeds Standard
3.0 pts
Meets Standard
2.0 pts
Below Standard
1.0 pts
Well Below Standard
0.0 pts
No Marks
4.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome
Analysis
Includes the meaning behind the song lyrics, instrumentation and parts of the song. Deeply analyzes their connection to one another and how that affects the way that the song is received by the audience.
6.0 pts
Exceptional
5.0 pts
Exceeds Standard
4.0 pts
Meets Standard
3.0 pts
Below Standard
2.0 pts
Well Below Standard
1.0 pts
Partial Credit
0.0 pts
No Marks
6.0 pts
Total Points: 15.0