M4 Discussion 10: Social Reform Movements in Antebellum America

Overview

The purpose of this discussion is to express your understanding of the 19th century social reform movements.

Instructions

For this discussion, review your readings and sources in Unit 10, and read the following scenario carefully. Feel free to do research outside the course if you’d like other points of view.

Choose ONE of the listed social reform movements:

• Temperance Movement
• Anti-Slavery Movement
• Women’s Rights Movement
• Prison Reform Movement

Form into groups.  Students with last names beginning with A-F will take the prison reform movement. Students with last names beginning with G-L will take the temperance movement. Students with last names beginning with M-S will take the abolitionist/antislavery movement. Students with the last names beginning with T-Z will take the women’s rights movement.

You are attending a rally in support of your chosen reform movement. It is your turn to step up to the podium.  Please prepare a short persuasive statement that addresses the factors that have shaped your movement. What problem(s) does it address?  Why is your movement important? What are some facts that support your argument?  What are some assumptions made about your movement?  How did participating in this movement serve to reshape the way you see yourself and your society?

Before you complete your discussion, make sure you refer to the course rubric for the expectations for this assignment.  Participating in the course discussions is an important part of your final grade. In your discussions, you cannot simply reply to someone’s posting with “ditto” or “I agree with you.”   You must complete the assignment in a minimum of two paragraphs and a maximum of threeparagraphs. Your responses should also quote and cite the material you have read in the class so far; you may also do outside research. Use the Purdue OWL Chicago Style guide for help with the correct citation style for your quotes.