Description
Instructions for Movie and Theory Paper
The purpose of this assignment is to examine the entertainment media’s portrayal of explanations of criminal behavior. A tremendous number of fictional television programs and films have focused on various aspects of the criminal justice system, with widely varying degrees of accuracy. Such entertainment often takes a great deal of dramatic license in its portrayal of criminals in the criminal justice system.
Choose ONE film or ONE episode of a television program that portrays a topic relevant to class (e.g., cause or theory of crime). The film or television program you choose should be a work of fiction, dramatizing some aspect of the criminal justice system and its actors. DO NOT USE documentaries, news programs, or “real-life” documentary-style programs, although dramatic films or TV programs “based on a true story” are fine. The film or TV program you have chosen must be related to the issues and topics discussed in class. The first step of a good paper is of course, making an appropriate choice.
Two important points to consider:
1.If you choose to NOT select a film of TV program relevant to the course you will receive NO CREDIT for this assignment, because you would have demonstrated no basic comprehension of this course and its topics. If you are unsure, please talk with me or the GA.
2.If you have trouble completing all of the steps of the assignment (see below), the film or TV program you have chosen probably is not sufficient to complete the assignment, and you should select another.
Elements of the paper:
1.The title and a summary of the film or TV program you have chosen.
2.A discussion of how the film/TV program is relevant to class. Include:
The specific-class (or book) related issue(s) and topic(s) that are portrayed. In other words, which criminological theory can explain or account for the behavior of the criminal depicted in your selection?
Describe any limitations to this explanation
3.A description of your opinion of the film and its portrayal of criminal behavior.
Required Formatting:
Times New Roman size 12 font, double-spaced
In order to fully address the elements discussed above, your paper should be approximately 3-5 pages. If you are in doubt, ask a fellow student, the GSA, or me.
The use of subtitles (i.e. Introduction, Discussion, Conclusion) are highly encouraged.
The work must be completed on your own. Be sure to proof-read your paper. Check carefully for grammatical errors and for proper spelling
