Analyzing Education Through a Sociological Lens: Choose a movie that focuses on education (examples: Lean on Me (1989), Dangerous Minds (1995), Finding Forrester (2000), Freedom Writers (2007), The Great Debaters (2007)). After giving a brief overview of the movie, analyze it using what you have learned so far in class about the sociology of education. What sociological theories can be applied to the movie, and how do these theories help explain what is happening in the film? How can the movie be connected to the educational system in real life?
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SummaryTo begin, you will need to summarize the relevant information for the memo. What you are summarizing depends on each individual prompt, but it general it will include relevant theories, arguments, policies/practices, organizational structures, etc. You want to summarize things briefly, highlighting the main idea(s) involved. Your summary should be a minor part of your memo as compared to the other portions, and should concisely orient the reader to your purpose and what you will be analyzing.
Application of Concepts & TheoriesOnce you have provided a summary of the materials in your memo, you should apply your chosen theories, concepts, and perspectives to the issue you are analyzing. How do these theories and concepts help you understand and interpret your topic? Do they map on well to your topic, or is there room for critique or reconsideration?
Critical AnalysisThis is the most important part of your memo, and it builds upon your application of theory. This should be your own, original analysis of and reaction to the topic. You should absolutely interject personal opinion, but remember that opinion itself is not sufficient for a thorough analysisyou need to back up your thoughts with course material. You must cite course readings!
