Core Learning Outcomes (CLO) for GGH 310:
Name and identify on maps the location of current “hot-spots” of terrorist activity.
Identify and describe the basic characteristics of regions with common occurrences of terrorism or terrorist activity.
Analyse the root causes of terrorism using a geographic perspective.
Evaluate terrorism and its impact on the global community.
Core Assessment Description & Instructions: Case Study Research Paper:
The Core Assessment for this course will challenge you to become an “expert” on the causes, nature, and potential future of terrorist activity within a specific country.
You must write an 8–10-page research paper (2000 to 2500 word minimum, before alphabetised works cited), using a minimum of 8 sources with in-text and end citations, in which you conduct a geographic analysis of recent terrorist activity within a selected country.
Since this is a paper of length, add in an abstract for this assignment. Therefore, adding in an abstract, the paper is about 3 times that of the previous writing assignments in regards to word count.
The paper should be double-spaced, 12-point font (usually Times New Roman), 1-inch margins, and using APA format. Include the page numbers and header in the format. Your analysis must cover each of the three
principal scales of geographic study: local, national/regional, and international/global.
The paper must include the following sections:
Cover Page
Abstract
Introduction:
Must include a clear thesis statement about terrorism/terrorist activity in Syria that you intend to prove through the evidence provided. Bring in some background to the topic including geography, history, current political/social climate. Include a map (with citation) of your chosen country. (Content of Communication)
Local Scale Investigation:
Summarise at least 4 of the most recent terrorist activities in Syria by briefly describing the locations where the activities have taken place, the type/nature of each of the activities, and briefly discussing the reasons why these locations were targeted/used. You should include a map (with citation) in your report that, at minimum, identifies the location of each site discussed. [CLO#1; Application]
National Scale Analysis:
Describe and analyse at least 4 of the elements of Syria’s “Contemporary Operational Environment” (i.e., the physical and/or human characteristics of the region which contribute to the occurrence of terrorist activity). In so doing, you should discuss the extent to which these elements illustrate the typical conditions found in areas where terrorist activity is most common. [CLO#2; Analysis]
International Scale Evaluation:
Evaluate the impact terrorism has had in Syria you are studying both regionally (i.e., in any neighbouring countries) as well as globally (i.e., in countries outside the immediate region). You should discuss whether you think the terrorist actions taken were the most effective means for the group/organisation to achieve its stated objectives. [CLO#4; Evaluation]
Case Study Lessons/Conclusion:
Summarise what you believe this case study demonstrates about the root causes of terrorism and propose an action plan that you think could be implemented in order to help diminish the threat of future terrorist activity within this country. [CLO#3; Synthesis]
Works Cited:
List, alphabetically, any sources you cited within the paper (Note: You must have at least 8 different sources) using APA documentation style. Be advised that this means you must also have used parenthetical citations within the paper itself. [Technical Skill in Communication]