Is not a eassy! is a Historiography Paper
In 2-3 pages, describe the historiogra
Is not a eassy! is a Historiography Paper
In 2-3 pages, describe the historiography on your research topic.
This exercise is about surveying and describing the “state of the field.” This situates your reader, allowing them to see what work has been done on your topic, the major issues/questions/disputes, and the major competing interpretations involved. And it also helps you to situate your own approach. (See Rampolla, Section 3d-2 “Historiography Essays” for more information about historiographic essays.)
Writing the Paper
There are essentially 3 parts of an historiography paper: an introduction that begins with a thesis, a body that lays out your information, and a conclusion that assesses the field as a whole.
The Introduction introduces the reader to your topic. Say what the topic is. Begin with a thesis (which, like all theses, you may want to write last, after you have worked out your conclusion), and then lead the reader into the material.
The Body introduces the major players in the field, states their positions, describes their approaches, methods, biases, and so on. Arrange them logically. Talk about people who agree with each other together. Contrast people who disagree and say why they disagree. And remember to pay close attention to chronology (let your reader know how the field has changed over time).
The Conclusion offers your assessment of the field. Summarize it very briefly. Boil it down to its essence. Say who you think are the most important historians and why you think so. Say who you agree with, who you disagree with, and why. Assess credibility. By doing all of this you situate yourself in the field (both for the reader and for yourself).
(Now write your thesis statement based on this and insert it into your introduction.)
my topic is As time changes, what impacts will the differences in education between China and the United States bring to people