History 420 – Between the World and Me Journal - Assignment #2 - Revised
Dr. Gayle Olson-Raymer
Due September 20- worth 100 points

Directions: There are two parts to your journal assignment, all of which are described below. Turn in your TYPEWRITTEN responses on the day the assignment is due and be ready to discuss your responses with your classmates.

Part One - Listening/Watching: Please listen to the "Democracy Now!" Podcast or watch the video with Ta-Nehisi Coates at http://www.democracynow.org/2015/7/22/between_the_world_and_me_ta. Then, address the following:

1. Does this introduction to Coates want you to read his book? Why or why not?
2. What did you find most interesting about your introduction to Coates as an author?

Part Two - Journaling and Responding: While you are reading Coates' book, you may find it helpful to jot down comments in a journal that will help you respond the following questions that you will answer after finishing the book. Please use examples and evidence from both the Democracy Now! podcast and the book.

1. In your opinion, what are the major themes of this book?  Describe at least three themes and then do the following:
   • Provide at least three specific examples of evidence with specific quotes (identified by page numbers) that reinforce each of the themes. This means you would have a total of nine examples of evidence - three for each theme,
   • Present an analysis of each of these themes - your thought, criticisms, and any other responses to each.
2. How does Coates describe his relationship with school and with teachers?  Provide specific quotes from the book to support your answer.
3. What did you learn from Coates that should inform your own classroom teaching?
4. What are your major criticisms of the book? Be specific and provide evidence to support this response.
5. Do you think this book is useful reading for History 420 in terms of helping us better understand the students we may be teaching. If so, why? If not, why not.