Reading Assignment #1

The reading assignment is a summary of the basic issues surrounding the ideas of race, class and ethnicity.

All reading assignments are based on the readings I will provide for you, either in the Copy Centre or online, unless otherwise specified (i.e. The assignment on plays, and the assignment on the novel).

Here is what is up to you to decide:

- How you define race, class, (and ethnicity)
- Which of the readings I have provided for you are most relevant for your discussion
- In what ways you can apply these readings to Bahamian culture and society

Because this is THIRD-YEAR English, you are responsible for making up your own minds. That is what critical thinking is all about.

Here are some additional resources for you:

T. H. Eriksen's article on Race and Ethnicity (definitions)

Andrea Lunsford, The St Martin’s Handbook, Sixth Edition, Chapters 1-3, especially the sections on critical reading (pp. 27-35)

There are no short-cuts here. Without investing in the above book, you will be seriously disadvantaged in this class. I do not intend to go over information that is contained in the text. Buy the SIXTH EDITION (earlier ones will not help you) and use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which of the readings should I use in my summary?
A: That is entirely up to you, as long as you can provide a credible definition of each of the concepts.

Q: How long should the summary be?
A: 2-4 pages, double-spaced, 12 point font.

Q: How do I summarize all those articles?
A: See St. Martin’s Handbook, Sixth Edition, pp. 27-35 for assistance.