Welcome to the Conversation!
Packback Questions (or just “Packback”) is your opportunity to engage the material we’re covering and consider it in a way that’s meaningful to you. This isn’t just another homework assignment—it’s a chance to ask big questions, share your ideas, and connect with your classmates. These texts and topics invite exploration, debate, and curiosity, so use this space to make the material your own. Whether you’re investigating something that fascinates you or puzzling over something you don’t quite understand, your contributions will enrich the conversation for everyone.
Overview of Key Points
|
|---|
|
Here’s how to get the most out of Packback and meet my expectations for your posts.
Posting Basics
- Timing is everything: Don’t wait until the last minute! Posting early gives your classmates time to respond and keeps the discussion lively. Plus, it shows you’re engaging with the material in a thoughtful way—not just rushing to hit a deadline.
- What you need to do each week: You’re responsible for one original question and two responses to your classmates’ questions. Make these posts count by putting effort into their quality and depth.
What to Write About
- Follow your curiosity: Your questions and responses should focus on whatever aspect of the material interests you the most—just make sure you are addressing the materials in some way. There are no “right” or “wrong” questions—just ones that show you’re thinking critically and creatively about what we’re studying.
- Need inspiration? I provide key questions under each topic to help you get started. Use these as a jumping-off point or take them in a new direction.
Writing and Formatting Tips
- Keep it professional: Your posts don’t have to be formal essays, but they should be clear, well-organized, and free of major grammar errors.
- Use proper formatting: Remember to italicize the titles of long works like the Odyssey and use academic conventions in your writing. Hint: see the way I present titles on the syllabus if you’re not sure.
- Be original: Avoid restating what’s already been said. Bring something new to the table—whether that’s a fresh interpretation, a connection to current events, or your personal take on the material.
Citing Sources the Right Way
If you use outside sources to back up your ideas (which is great!), it’s crucial to cite them properly. This means you need both an in-text citation and a works cited entry. Here’s how:
- In-text citation: Mention the source directly in your post or use an MLA-style parenthetical citation. For example:
- According to John Smith, the Odyssey reflects the complexity of human struggle.
- The themes in the Odyssey reflect the complexity of human struggle (Smith 45).
- Works Cited: Include a full citation at the end of your post using Packback’s tool. For example:
- Smith, John. Understanding Homer’s Epics. Academic Press, 2020.
Both are necessary to clearly show what you’re referencing and where it came from. If you miss including the in-text citation, for example, you could be plagiarizing.
Engagement and Community
- Ask big questions: Your question should spark curiosity and discussion. Think about what you’d want to answer if you were a classmate.
- Respond thoughtfully: When replying to others, go beyond “I agree.” Add something new to the conversation—explain your reasoning, share a different perspective, or connect it to another idea.
- Be respectful: Disagreement is fine (and encouraged!), but keep it respectful and grounded in the material.
Packback is a tool for exploring ideas, challenging assumptions, and learning together. Make the most of it! Let’s have some fun with these texts and create a space where great discussions happen.