How well does the student demonstrate a clear comprehension of the book? Did they cover the key points and main arguments made by Jacobs?

Completing the Essay:

After you have completed reading the book, craft an essay that addresses the following:

 

–Summarize the key points and main arguments made by Jacobs in each of the four parts of her book. Clearly demonstrate that you read the entire book and have a solid grasp of the content by highlighting specific examples used by the author to illustrate her key points.* (Roughly 75% of your essay)

 

–Critique Jacobs’ arguments. Discuss how valid her criticisms of urban planning and US cities were in 1961 and how relevant her arguments are today. Clearly justify your critique. (Roughly 25% of your essay)

 

Any direct quotes from the Jacobs book must be cited properly with page numbers using a consistent citation style throughout.

 

 

The following questions will be used to grade the critical essay assignment on Jane Jacob’s book:

 

  1. How well does the student demonstrate a clear comprehension of the book? Did they cover the key points and main arguments made by Jacobs? Did they demonstrate that they actually read the book, or does it look like they just read the back cover?

 

  1. Did they critically analyze Jacobs’ arguments in light of what was happening at the time it was published (1961), i.e. urban renewal and urban freeway building? Did they critically analyze the validity of Jacobs’ arguments in light of contemporary urban issues and urban planning practice?

 

  1. How well-written is the paper? Is it free of editing errors? Is it well-organized, clear, and concise?