Engl507

Log 4: Abstract for the Final Essay

We're now at that point in the semester when it's time to start thinking seriously about your final essay for the seminar. This entry in your research log asks you to develop an abstract for that essay. As a group, we will then workshop your abstract during seminar.

In the entry, please include the following:

• A working title for your essay,
• A polished, 250-word abstract for your essay (including the motivation for your research, a statement about an observed problem or issue, a brief explanation of methodology, and a working claim/thesis; you are welcome to add information about preliminary results and possible implications, if you'd like),
• A brief, informal statement (~30 words) on your essay's scope, with an emphasis on what you know you cannot address or examine by the semester's end,
• A brief, informal statement (~30 words) expressing any concerns you have at the moment, including any questions for your peers and me, and
• A peer-reviewed academic journal to which you could ultimately submit your essay (regardless of whether the journal's print, online, or hybrid). Consider journals that are not digital humanities journals.

During seminar on March 3rd, we will use a creative writing model to workshop your abstracts. Each of them will be reviewed in depth by your peers and me. During this review, you will listen to the feedback. Once the feedback is finished, you will then have an opportunity to briefly respond. We will dedicate roughly twelve minutes to each abstract.

Before seminar on the 3rd: please make sure you push your abstract to your research log. During seminar, we'll project the abstract for everyone to read. You are also welcome to bring print copies for circulation.

Get in touch with questions or concerns, and thanks again. I'm looking forward to reading these abstracts.