Chapter 21 Projects

Project Assignment

Purpose

Social movements drive social change and propel societies forward. The purpose of this project is to analyze the importance of social movements and social change in your life and to examine the impact and influence of social movements on American culture and society.

Directions

Part 1

First, write an essay of one to two pages that defines social movements and identifies and examines one important social change that has occurred in the U.S. in the twentieth century. Some examples include the civil rights movement, the women's rights movement, the environmental movement, and the anti-apartheid movement. You should include a brief history as it relates to the social movement you have selected.

Part 2

Next, create a picture collage that represents the social movement you selected. Include any leaders and defining symbols. You can create this collage digitally or with physical materials. You must include at least ten images, symbols, phrases, and/or music titles and lyrics.

Part 3

Finally, reflect on what you have learned in a brief one- to two-page essay by answering the following prompts:

• What is the social movement you selected?

• Why did you select that movement?

• What did you know about this movement before the assignment?

• What socio-historical events led up to this social movement?

• What kind of social movement is it: reform, revolutionary, religious/redemptive, alternative, or resistance?

• How did the participants in the movement use images, symbols, phrases, and/or music to make social change?

• Why was this movement important?

• Identify two major benefits from this movement. These can be cultural and/or individual benefits.

• How did this movement produce social change in American culture and society?

Materials

Access to resources on social change movements; a digital collage software or physical collage materials

Checklist

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Writing Assignment

Purpose

Collective behavior and groups impact the way we behave in society. What we do, how we do it, and when is largely influenced by norms and values but also by the way we see others act. The purpose of this writing assignment is to examine how groups and collective behavior affect individuals in our society.

Directions

In an essay of two to three pages (APA style), address each of the following prompts:

• Define collective behavior.

• Provide three examples of collective behavior.

• Examine the implications of collective behavior.

• What are three major benefits of collective behavior?

• What are three major drawbacks of collective behavior?

• Can you think of a way collective behavior can be prevented? If so, how?

• Have you ever experienced collective behavior? How has it operated in your life?

• List three ways in which collective behavior can be a powerful tool for social change.

• List three ways American society promotes and encourages collective behavior.

Materials

None required.

Checklist