Prompt:

Gemini, known for its versatility, curiosity, and communication skills, presents a unique perspective when examining the concepts of identity because “it is all about the details” and looking at things from lots of different perspectives. Yet, it also about play and being playful with the mind and in life.

How are you like or not like the attributes and/or characteristics (discourse) connected with the symbol of Gemini? Why?
Intersectionality is a theoretical framework that examines how various social identities, such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, intersect to create unique experiences of oppression and privilege. As a sign with signifiers such as communication and connection, the discourse surrounding Gemini helps us understand the value of an intersectional perspective to social science research and everyday life because it is about looking as something from a multitude of perspectives and levels of society and culture.

Thinking about your presentation, how is your story connected to other stories about society or culture?
As an air sign, Gemini is often associated with intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a love of ideas. Do you see yourself as a communicator with something important to say? Do you connect with the idea that you have the power to create new knowledge about the world? By exploring these questions, you can delve into the complex relationship between individual identity, cultural narratives, and the ways in which social identities intersect. Gemini as a symbol and a discourse provides a rich lens through which to examine how personal attributes can intersect with larger cultural and political forces.

Description:

Over the course of the semester, the student will demonstrate their increasing writing skills and the completion of key texts by creating reading notes to be used in class and on their exams. Reading notes should be 1-2 pages max, and these notes should be written as if the student is writing to themselves. In other words, students should use personal experience and language in their notes, and students should focus on developing their writing voice. Further, these notes should be helpful to the student in some way. For example, students in the past have included definitions, key concepts, or discussed emerging ideas in regards to course content. In general, students with excellent marks on this assignment will feature some of their best writing and grammar in each reading note. Excellent students will follow the following format: summary/synthesis of the text, reflection, and pose a question.

Format:

Summary/Synthesis of the Text
When summarizing the main points of the text, it is important to be selective and focus on the most important ideas. You should also try to put the ideas in your own words, rather than simply copying and pasting from the text. Here are some tips for writing a good summary:
Read the text carefully and identify the main points.
Write a brief overview of each main point.
Use your own words to explain the main points.
Be clear and concise.
Proofread your summary carefully.

Reflection

In your reflections on the text, you should share your own thoughts and opinions about what you have read. You can draw on your personal experience, prior readings, or ongoing research to support your reflections. Be sure to discuss your astrological horoscope in some way as part of this reflection with the reading. Here are some tips for writing effective reflections:
Be honest and open about your thoughts and feelings.
Be specific and provide examples to support your points.
Connect your reflections to the text and to your own life.
Be respectful of other people’s views.
Here are some additional tips for writing effective reading notes:
Be selective. Don’t try to write down everything you read. Instead, focus on the main points and ideas.
Use your own words. Don’t just copy and paste from the text.
Be clear and concise. Your notes should be easy to read and understand.
Use active voice. This will make your writing more engaging.
Proofread your notes carefully before submitting them
Use this textbook:
Identities and Inequalities: Exploring the Intersections of Race, Class, Gender, and Sexuality
David M. Newman

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