Final Exam Essay: The Graphic Novel as a Window into Stereotype

Threat

Background
Throughout the quarter we have examined various forms of stereotypes and
their functions and consequences. Claude Steeles research in Whistling
Vivaldi illuminated stereotype threats and their impact on academic
performance, social settings, and feelings of belonging. Ta-nehisi Coates
book Between the World and Me deepened our understanding of the
relationship between racial stereotyping, the black body, the Dream, and
parenting children of color from a personal and historical perspective.
Examining arguments regarding Rachel Dolezals reverse passing revealed
how divisive and fluid racial identity has become in the US. Our individual
research on various aspects of racial profiling demonstrated some of the
most dangerous consequences and biggest concerns regarding the inherent
nature of stereotyping a person. Now, we take one final look at stereotyping
through the lens of the graphic novel American Born Chinese.
Your Task:
Write a 1,000 word (3-4 pages) essay in MLA format that argues why the
graphic novel, specifically American Born Chinese, offers an effective and
relevant lesson into the results of stereotyping. Your essay should include
three main focuses: 1. Identification and description of the stereotypes
present in ABCs three storylines. 2. Various techniques used in ABC that
impact the readers understanding of or empathy for
stereotyping/stereotypees. 3. Comparisons to other sources that weve
studied regarding stereotyping.

Guidelines and Hints:

The essay is due by midnight on turnitin.com, the day before your
final exam.
Youll be writing an extended cover letter IN CLASS on the day of the
final. Bring paper and pen.
Avoid plot summaries of the graphic novel; only summarize what is
necessary to make your point about techniques or comparisons.
Include full citations and full names/titles when referring to previous
sources or work in class.
This is your last opportunity to demonstrate the writing skills youve
developed this quarter. As a reminder, we have worked on the
following:
o Writing clear thesis statements (claims of policy, fact, or value)
o Developing TEEA paragraphs
o Introducing all quotes (phrase, sentence, or embedded)
o Citing all quotations and paraphrases
o Developing new and academically appropriate vocabulary
o Using noun phrase appositives to give important information
about an author or work.
o Sentence combining (coordination, subordination, and
semicolons with transition words) to increase coherence.
o Setting up the context of situations or background information in
your introduction to better engage your reader.
o Using the full name of authors the first time and then their last
names/pronouns throughout the rest of the essay.
o MLA formatting, layout and citations
o Avoiding you, references and keeping a consistent perspective
o Using transition words or phrases or repetition to increase
coherence
o Building your arguments with a combination of logos, pathos,
and ethos.