This assignment asks you to explain one topic related to our class readings in 3 - 5 pages. The topic may be in your area of study, or simply in an area of interest.
The purpose of this essay will be explanatory; the audience will be interested non-experts. Choose a topic that you can explain in detail: a step-by-step process, for example.
Research is not required, but if you use any sources (including textbooks) you must cite them. This essay is primarily exploratory; you should use this essay (and the 2nd short essay), to test out ideas for your major research project.