Final Project

Final Project on Language and Power: Quarter 4

In the last quarter of this class, we have read and discussed topics relating to Language and Power.  We learned about the colonial era, when language and power were part of a purposeful plan to rule and change native people.  More recently, we have been discussing about how current issues of language, especially with African American Vernacular English and Standard English, affect our society still to this day.

The final project for this class will be to complete a creative piece on Language and Power.  Whichever option you choose, you will also turn in a 1 page, typed artist’s statement that explains how your art relates to our unit.  

Creative Piece Prompts  (Pick 1 of the following options)

1. Write a song or rap about how language and power affect minority groups today, or specifically how language and power affects you.  You can write about your experiences in school or out in the world.  You must turn it a “recorded” version of the song.  Extra credit if you perform it.  You may work in a group, no bigger than 2 people.
2. Draw, paint, or sculpt a piece of art about Language and Power.  When doing this, think about how our readings illuminated how it feels to be forced to change who you are.  If you choose this option, you will be graded on the quality of your artwork.
3. Write your own story of language and power.  It should be a non-fiction, narrative story about your life experience in school or in the world.  It must be at least 2 pages, typed.
4. Design a protest poster encouraging a change in the system about Language and Power.  You can target school practices or professional/business culture.  Also, as you create your poster, have a clear idea in mind of who your poster is for.
5. Shoot and star in a short video that connects to the theme of code-switching.  It can be a drama or a comedy.  No more than 3 people can work together on this project.

Artist’s Statement (1 page typed, 12 font)

If you are working in a group, each student needs to submit their own statement

An artist statement is a general introduction of your work as an artist.  It helps you convey the deeper meaning or purpose of your work to the audience.

Your artist’s statement should include:

1. An Introduction Paragraph - Give some background information about Language and Power.  Explain what type of art you have chosen to create and why.  What is the “thesis statement” or big idea in your piece of art.
2. Artist’s Detailed Explanation - Explain your art. What was the process you used to make your art (what did you do first, second, third)?  Why did you choose to write it or draw it they way you did?  What does it show about Language and power and why?
3. Personal Paragraph - What does this art mean to you?  What did you learn about Language and Power?  Now that you know what you know, how is your life different?  Have you made any changes in the way you think about the world or society?

Assignment Due: June 6 and 7th -  Absolutely NO LATE WORK will be accepted