GOVT2306: Texas Government Discussion
Critical Question Posed: Unit 1 Core Question:
During the early years of Texas development, the state developed a heavy dependence on three primary areas of economic production; oil, cattle, and cotton. However, over the course of the 20th Century, the population of Texas has continued to grow at a notable rate which has forced a diversification of the Texas economy.
Your Question: Has Texas reached a point of equilibrium where the traditional areas of economic production (oil, cattle, and cotton) are no longer essential to the survival of the state thus allowing Texas to further its economic diversification and reduce its dependency on these traditional areas. Or, is Texas still dependent on these areas for economic survival and viability which requires the state to continue supporting these traditional economic powerhouses in the foreseeable future.
Student’s answer to the question:
Each question is set up to allow a clear, concise answer. It is important to note that each question could be argued several different ways depending on each student’s take on the question. The important skill here is to identify the variables in question, define those variables to a measurable component, and then determine the level of causal connection between the two.
Moreover, the answer here should be straightforward, concise, and phrase un such a way that lends towards the data. As such, your position should be phrased not as “I believe” or “in my opinion” but rather based upon the data selected (“the data suggests” “the evidence supports”). It is important to approach this assessment with a mindset of letting the data guide your answer and then presenting an argument in defense of your chosen answer.
As a guide to assessment scoring, exceptional answers will:
- Be clear, concise, and specific to the question posed.
- Identify clear, limited, measurable variables specific to the answer provided.
- Identify a clear causal connection (or lack thereof) between the identified variables.
- Be written in objective language
1st Piece of Evidence: Must include Title, Author, Source, and Full URL
Integrity of Data: The first section should analyze the source of the data, not the data itself. The source should be secure by establishing the credentials of the author(s), the respective relevance of the data, and the objective/academic nature of the data collection. Most of the sources students gravitate towards struggle to pass this first test.
Applicability of the Data: This section should clearly attach the data selected to the causal connection argued in the student’s given answer. To secure full credit, specific data points should be highlighted here with specific application to the answer provided.
2nd Piece of Evidence: Must include Title, Author, Source, and Full URL
Integrity of the Data:
Applicability of the Data:
3rd Piece of Evidence: Must include Title, Author, Source, and Full URL
Integrity of the Data:
Applicability of the Data: