The purpose of this final essay question is two-fold: first, it gives you the opportunity to reflect upon the course content,

overall feeling of the course

The purpose of this final essay question is two-fold:  first, it gives you the opportunity to reflect upon the course content, respond in an honest and straightforward manner, and “show your stuff” in terms of what you’ve learned throughout the semester; secondly, it allows me the chance to implement that CAP, approach – CONTENT, ANALYSIS, PERSPECTIVE.  You understand the CONTENT, you have the ability to CRITICALLY ANALYZE the material, and formulate a PERSPECTIVE.  In other words, I want to see that you’ve actually THOUGHT about the material we’ve covered throughout the semester, and that you have the ability to articulate your thoughts on paper.

Keep in mind that you are free thinking, creative, intelligent students of history – therefore, I don’t want to know what the author of your book has to say about a topic (I can read that for myself).  While you can refer to the text when offering specific examples (i.e. statistical information, direct quotes), that material must be cited properly, including proper use of quotation marks and parenthetical citations.  What I would really prefer to see is a creative use of the material from the textbook and supplemental material (websites found in the EXTERNAL LINKS folder, etc) incorporated into a well-organized, thoughtful, insightful essay that addresses each of the aforementioned questions in one way or another.  I prefer that you utilize NO other sources than the textbook, external links, and your notes from the course.  Approach this final exam as though we were engaging in a verbal exchange – I want to see that you’ve not only learned various aspects of United States History, but that you also enhanced your ability to THINK for yourself!

It’s QUALITY, not quantity! Therefore, I am looking for a comprehensive reflection on the course material.  You may be able to do that in 500 words