Reaction Homework #1

[Sam]

Reaction Paper #1

Due Wednesday September 23rd

This is a 1 page paper that requires your reaction to the question.

In the Jared Diamond video Guns, Germs and Steel, Part I shown on day
one of class, and also located on the webgroup as a link.

Please do two (2) things:
1. Briefly sum up Dr. Diamond’s answer to Yali’s question. Then,
answer this question:

2. What do you think of Dr. Diamond’s answer to the Yali’s question?
In other words, do you think it is possible to explain all of world
history like this? What would you change about his ideas? Is he
missing something that should be added?


We will then discuss these points of view at the beginning of next
class. Remember, I know that you are just starting out as
archaeologists, but it is important to think about the big picture and
what we are trying to do here. By reacting to his ideas, I want you
to think critically. Chapter 1 can be helpful for you, as you are
expected to have read it by the second class as well.

Remember, reaction papers are a way for you to accomplish several
goals. An especially important goal is to give you practice in weaving
together academic knowledge with your own perceptions and opinions. In
this course, you will be required to develop “reaction papers”.
Remember, grading is never based on your viewpoint(s), but is based on
how well you “back-up” your opinion(s). Reaction papers should be
approximately one (1) page in length. They should be double spaced,
and can be printed, hand written or sent in via email. These papers
will be graded on a 15 point scale. No late assignments.

There is no downgrading for lackluster grammar; I am more importantly
looking for ideas and discussions. Of course, this should be in
sentence form and not in texting or IM form, but I do understand that
formal writing is difficult and takes practice.