In this course you will read an additional book, write a brief review of it, and use your review as a basis for an extended oral and written analysis of an important topic.

STEP ONE: Choose a book.

Due Monday, 9/14: Let me know your choice (consult the list or visit your favorite bookstore and make a suggestion).

STEP TWO: Write a 500-word book review.

Due Tuesday, 10/13: Your review should include a summary of the book's scope and aims, the author's thesis, and how effectively the thesis is argued. You won't have much room for many of your own opinions - you can voice those in your presentation and your review essay. Think of this review as a summary you might prepare for your boss who wants to know what the book is about but doesn't want to take the time to read it.

STEP THREE: Identify topics and sources for a review essay.

Due Tuesday, 11/17: Eventually you will use one or more of the themes in your book as the basis of an extended review essay. This essay should synthesize 4 or 5 articles or books that provide different perspectives on your topic (for example, security or "network neutrality"). The first step is to identify a compelling theme or issue and to cast a wide net for other books or articles that provide different perspectives on the theme/issue.

As part of your preparations, take a look at Rob Weir's article on scholarly reviews.

STEP FOUR: Present your work to the class.

Presentations will be spread over four days: 11/23, 11/24, 11/30, and 12/1. Your presentation should include a brief outline of the book's argument and contents, as well as your view of the significance of the book. In other words - what do people who haven't read the book need to know about it? How does your topic fit into the broader context of the issues we've discussed throughout the semester? And, finally, to be blunt: who cares? Should we care? Why?

STEP FIVE: Write a review essay.

Due Monday, 12/7.

Review Rob Weir's article on scholarly reviews.

Your essay should begin with the full citations of all books and articles reviewed. It should be 2000-3000 words, double spaced, and thoroughly proofread. It should contain a clear thesis statement and should summarize, analyze, criticize, and synthesize the material you have read.