History 216 Modern Latin America

LA in the Media

Black and white photo of Evita addressing a crowd
“Eva Perón Addressing a Crowd of women on the Occasion of the Enactment of the Women’s Suffrage Law, September 1947” Archivo General de la Nación Argentina

You are responsible for writing a thoughtful blog post analyzing two recent (past month) news articles covering Latin American or Latino history, environment, or culture, and placing the topic in historical perspective. You’ll then share this in a focused 3-minute presentation.

I’ve listed many English-language sources for Latin American / Latino news below.  You’re not restricted to this list (but should not pick Reuters or AP Wire service articles).

Course Learning Goals Addressed:

  1. Place current events in historical perspective.
  2. Evaluate diverse interpretations of Latin America and its peoples.
  3. Use the skills of historians – including research, analysis, and interpretation – to create your own interpretations of primary sources.
Assignment Specifications

Select a reputable media story about Latin America, Latin Americans, or Latino communities from the past month that has not already been presented (note: you CAN choose a significant update / new development of an ongoing story.)

Write a 5-paragraph blog post that includes at least one paragraph each that:

Paragraph 1: Summarizes the current event and identifies key people and institutions
Paragraph 2: Analyzes one journalist’s coverage, considering their argument, use of evidence, and depiction of Latin America
Paragraph 3: Analyzes a second journalist’s coverage, considering their argument, uses of evidence, and depiction of Latin America
Paragraph 4: Explains how and why you think the two news stories differ, and why this matters.
Paragraph 5: Concludes with how you think this story relates to class themes.

All blog posts must:

Support your analysis with specific examples from the story and from class.
Indicate all sources of information (whether quoted or paraphrased) with clear citations.
Include a link to the media story.
Include at least one image.
Post to our class blog by 24 hours before your chosen date.

Here is a video on how to post to Voices (Word Press).

On your class date, present a 3-minute overview of your story, focusing on what is happening, how it is depicted in your source, why it is significant, and how it links to course themes.  Please make sure to keep it organized and concise (under time).

Grading Rubric

Your work will be evaluated

  • Format: Assignment fulfills criteria for content, clear writing, use of links and images, and citations. Assignment is submitted on time.

  • Summary: Forum post presents a clear, focused summary of the event.

  • Primary Source Analysis: Thoughtful analysis highlighting each journalists’ argument, use of evidence, & broader implications.

  • Portrayal of Latin America/ Latin Americans: Good consideration of the journalists’ point-of-view and how it shapes their coverage.

  • Course Themes: Clear links to course themes and wider issues in Latin American History.

  • Presentation: Clear, well organized presentation that highlights key points of the topic & engages audience.

I’ll leave my evaluation and comments on Moodle.

Student Dates

The full schedule of student LA in the Media dates is posted on Moodle.

Media Ideas

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