GROUP PRESENTATIONS ASSIGNMENT
This project is a chance for you to demonstrate to me that you understand the concepts discussed in the course, including being able to explain what the different perspectives in criminology mean. This assignment is 20% of your overall grade for the course. The grade for the group presentation is collective (i.e., if the presentation receives an ‘A’, then everyone in the group receives an ‘A’). It is important that the division of labor is split evenly and everyone participates in both the research and presentation components of the project. There is, however, a possibility that not everyone will put their part and others will have to pick up the slack. You should let me know of this (with plenty of time before presentations are due). The group will not be penalized academically. Failure to be present during class presentations (both for your own or another group’s) will result in a 25% penalty for your individual grade.
Assignment:
I will assign each group a different movie to watch. I will also give you an option of 1 or more theories to apply to the movie. The group will discuss how the theory(ies), as well as the different concepts and perspectives associated with the theory(ies), can be applied to the movie. Basically, I am looking to gauge whether or not you “get it.” If you can show how the elements and perspectives can be explained or applied to the movie, then you will have demonstrated to me that you understand the basic concept.
Part of this assignment is to conduct research, so that you can properly apply the theory to the movie.
As you prepare the presentation, you should ask yourselves:
What relationship does the theory have to the movie?
- How does the theory apply?
- What are examples of how the theory applies?
Your presentation should include (but not be limited to) the following:
- A BRIEF summary of the movie. THIS SHOULD TAKE NO MORE THAN 2 MIN. The biggest mistake groups make is to take too long to summarize. You do not have to take very long. 2 minutes; no more.
- Explain the theory/perspective Provide a definition of the theory. This means you must explain what the theory is and says, including the person who came up with the theory, what group the theory was aimed at, and the basic assumptions and tenets of the theory.
- Explain how this theory applies to the movie.
- You should provide examples of how the theory applies to the movie.
- You should also use other information discussed in class, such as statistical data, and/or perspectives associated with the theory or concept.
- Stay within the time allowed; each group will have 12min.
Be creative and think “outside” the box. Groups should bring some sort of PowerPoint or other type(s) of creative presentation to enhance your report. Please DO NOT wait until the last minute to divide the work among your group members. I know it is hard for students to meet outside of class. My advice is to split the work and then come together a few times before the presentation due date and make sure everyone is making progress and knows what aspect/angle they will speak about.
