CHW 3MI SEMINAR PRESENTATIONS

EXPECTATIONS

You and a partner will prepare and present a 30 minute seminar on the topic of your choice. Please see the list of topics posted on the WCI web site. Your seminar will be scheduled in accordance with the development of the curriculum where possible, however topics from previously covered units will be presented first.

WHAT IS A SEMINAR?

In essence, a seminar is a VERBAL ESSAY. The purpose of your presentation is:

  1. To inform the class about your topic. i.e.) background information, your thesis and arguments.
  2. To present a thesis and arguments. I.e. your ideas about your topic.
  3. To stimulate class discussion. (hint… have a question ready in case they’re asleep!)

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Pick a topic. Be as specific as possible without limiting your topic too much. Decide first on a time period and then on a particular civilization within the scope of our course (i.e. upto 1600) that really peaks your curiosity. Do some initial research in the area- (start with your text book) and then narrow your scope further by asking yourself a relevant question. For instance, if you choose to present a seminar on Greek mythology it is not enough to simply discuss a few myths… you must dig deeper and ask yourself the larger focal question- What were the functions of myths to the Greeks? … an attempt to understand nature? Creation? The gods?
  2. Develop a working thesis on your topic. A good way to do this is to answer the question you came up with in # 1 above. A P.M.I., a mind map, or brainstorming… are all very good ways to get started.
  3. Do further research. Try to find out as much about your topic as you can. Given this new information you may wish to modify your thesis accordingly. (Hence the term ‘working’ thesis)
  4. Create a typed, 1 page handout for the class. This FACT SHEET of the key details for your peers to keep and to study from. It should begin with your thesis and contain your arguments. Also include at least one Bibliographic reference along the bottom of the page.
  5. Present your findings to the class. You might try proceeding as follows:

a)Provide some background info on the topic. (intro)

b)Present your thesis and arguments in support of it to the class. Be specific and try not to omit any of the gory details! Remember, you likely know more about this topic than anyone else in the room.

c)Conclude your seminar by summarizing the major conclusions you have drawn after researching the area. You may wish to ask your previously formulated question here to stimulate discussion. The floor will now be open for questions from the class.

d)You may wish to distribute your 1 page FACT SHEET to the class at the outset or at the end.

SOME TIPS FOR A GREAT SEMINAR:

  1. Make good use of available audio-visual resources. Video, DVD excerpts, POWER-POINT, overheads, maps, pictures, and primary source documents are all useful and will add much to your overall presentation.
  2. Ensure that your FACT SHEET is well organized. i.e. no longer than 1 page, point form, thesis clearly stated, sources along the bottom.
  3. Do not presume to simply read your essay to the class. Try to converse naturally- make eye contact, be expressive, try to be fluid- avoid ‘ums’, ‘ahs’… be involved and excited! (easier said than done, I know)
  4. Feel free to be creative. Many of our topics lend themselves nicely to a bit of role play or drama…
  5. Meet your time requirement. Conversely, do not go over your allotted time!
  6. Have any preparatory work to me the day before the presentation! Fact sheets appearing the morning of the seminar will be subject to a 5 % late penalty. Also, with respect to the making of overhead transparencies, if you cannot get your materials to me the day before, you will have to make them in the Library yourself at your own expense. Please tell me ahead of time if VCR/DVD or LCD equipment is needed.

*** As always, any questions or clarifications see me.