Sundiata: An Epic of Old Mali
Rather than a summary of the texts, you will write a narrow and specific paper identifying a historical argument we can make from the text in light of its content, authorship, production, audience, and transmission. You will use any relevant course material (other readings, lectures, ect.) to provide context. All evidence from the reading must be cited in either MLA or Chicago format.
Primary Source Rubric
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Criterion (Score 0 if element is absent) |
Below Expectations
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Meets Expectations
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Exceeds Expectations
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Score |
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Analysis of Document |
Reiterates one or two facts from the document but does not offer any analysis or interpretation of the document. Deals only briefly and vaguely with the key issues and main points in the document. Does not identify any historical arguments we can make with the source. |
Offers accurate analysis of the document. Identifies key issues and main points in the text, and demonstrates a basic understanding of the author’s goals. Identifies potential historical arguments we can make with the course. |
Makes an explicit and convincing argument about history based on in-depth analysis and interpretation of the document. Clearly identifies what types of historical argument we can (and cannot) make with this source. |
/15 |
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Use of evidence and knowledge of historical and (when relevant) historiographical context. |
Barely indicates any relevant historical knowledge |
Basic to average use of previous historical knowledge to examine issues in the document. |
Shows evidence of thorough knowledge of period in which source was written; relates primary source to specific historical context in which it was written. |
/5 |
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Formatting, Writing Conventions, and Citations |
Sentences sound awkward, are distractingly repetitive, or are difficult to understand. The author makes numerous errors in grammar, mechanics, and/or spelling that interfere with understanding. Citations are incorrect or non-existence. |
The author supports all evidence with proper MLA or Chicago Citations. The author makes several errors in grammar and mechanics, but they do not interfere with understanding. |
The paper demonstrates correct grammar, writing mechanics, and usage. All evidence is supporting with proper MLA or Chicago citations. There are no more than 1-2 grammar and spelling mistakes. |
/5 |
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TOTAL |
/25 |
