CRITICAL ESSAY TOPICS AND READINGS: (Choose ONLY one topic)
Topic - Tourism
Critically evaluate the benefits and impacts of wildlife tourism.
1. CRITICAL ESSAY: DESCRIPTION OF TASK
Choose one of the topics in the attached Word document, read the four readings on the topic (i.e. three (3) journal articles and one (1) book chapter), and write a 1000 word critical essay on the topic. The word "critical" does not mean to simply criticise in a negative manner, but rather it is your ability to objectively evaluate the information in these readings in relation to the topic you are asked to argue. This means that you present arguments for and against the topic you have chosen. You must reference the four provided readings, both in-text and at the end, in APA 6th ed. The word length, excluding your reference list at the end, is 1000 words.
In an essay format, in your introduction include a thesis statement which states your position on the topic. Identify or list the main arguments or ideas to be discussed in the essay in the order in which they will appear. Consider these tips while writing your essay:
- The critical essay is informative. It is not simply a summary of the content of the readings. In this kind of writing, all claims made about the topic or issue need to be supported with evidence.
- The difference between your opinion and facts is simple - it does not matter what you believe about the topic or issue; what matters is what you can prove about it, drawing upon evidence found in the readings.
- Criticism does not mean attacking the readings or the authors; it simply means you are thinking critically about it, exploring it, and discussing your findings.
- The tone is objective and serious (i.e. Do not use I, we, me, you).
- Key terms and concepts should be explained or defined.
- Be specific about the points you are making and back up those points with evidence that is credible and appropriate.
- It is not necessary to cover all points. Focus your discussion on the major ideas and develop them well.
- Be sure your discussion is clearly organised. Each paragraph should support the main idea and logically flow. Within each paragraph, sentences should be connected to one another.
- Ensure your essay is free of mechanical and stylistic errors.
- Make sure you reference throughout your essay and at the end in a reference list (on a separate page) in alphabetical order using APA 6th edition. The reference list at the end does not contribute to the word count.
4 Readings: 3 Journal Articles and 1 Book Chapter
1. Banerjee (2012): Is wildlife tourism benefiting Indian protected areas? [Journal Article]
2. Dobson (2011): Towards a utilitarian ethic for marine wildlife tourism [Journal Article]
3. Higginbottom (2004): Wildlife tourism: An introduction (pp. 1-14 - Chapter 1) [Book Chapter]
4. Recharte, Bride, & Bowler (2014): A recovering flagship: Giant otters, communities and tourism in northern Peru [Journal Article].