do hands-on, original anthropological/sociological research to support the argument in your paper. This means doing in-person interviews and/or direct observation of some sport of contemporary society.

apply at least one of the sociological theories reviewed in the Sage, Eitzen and Beal reading (week 1). When you apply your chosen theory, you must also say why you believe it is the best of for your particular study; i.e. you must argue why it’s most relevant to your particular study, and why others are not. I am looking for deeper-than-superficial-thought here, ultimately because applying a sociological theory will help you better understand what you saw/heard in the course of your research. Remember: sociological theories can serve as valuable frames to see sociological phenomena, and therefore can be key to deeper understanding.

Find scholarly resources not in this syllabus, read them (more than just the abstract), and use their insights to support the thesis you argue in your paper.

Your final research paper must be approximately 2,000-2,500 words, double-spaced, Times New Roman 12 point font, 0.5 margins on all sides of the page. Please type your papers using a word processor unless you have immaculate handwriting. Never plagiarize, ghostwrite, or dry lab. (Consult a dictionary if you do not know what these words mean). Finally, it should go without saying, but please do not hand in a first draft. I take off points for typos and grammatical mistakes, since they indicate carelessness and a lack of attention to detail. Students will receive a high grade if they communicate their thoughts effectively, and that requires understanding and properly using the written (i.e. not spoken) English language.