Sociology

Song Lyric Assignment
Music is central to social life. Songs are stories that represent culture. Lyrics tell us about relationships,
families, work, deviance, social movements and social inequality (to name a few). Lyrics can influence the
way we understand the intersections of race, class, gender, sexuality, nationality. For this assignment, you
will pick a song and analyze it using a sociological theory, and the concepts discussed in the course.
Outline for Assignment
Introduction – a statement of the song chosen and it’s relation to a sociological theory/concept(s) and
rationale for what is being examined. Provide a detailed summary of your chosen topic. You must have a
road map paragraph that tells the reader what will be covered in the paper. Approx. 0.5 – 1 page
Description of Lyrics – Provide a description about the song lyrics. The rationale for you choosing the song.
Approx. 0.5 – 1 page
Theory and Concept – student will explain the theory or concept(s) they learned from the course that they
will apply to the lyrics. The purpose of this section is to illustrate you understand the concepts. You may
want to include how these concepts have been use in the research. Approx. 1.5 – 2 pages
Analysis – Develop an analysis around the theory and concepts. Discuss how the concepts help us understand
the song lyrics and relate to social life. You can divide the analysis into two or three sections, each separated
by a heading that elucidates your main point. Each section should include specific material from readings
and articles, to make a point. Do not make general statements without backing them up with specific
examples (including the lyrics). Approx. 2 – 4 pages
Conclusion: Tie the various points or themes together. What are some conclusions you can make about social
relationship, intuitions, everyday life…? Approx. 1 – 1.5 pages. References: list of sources cited in your final
paper, with complete citations in APA format.
The assignment should be presented in the form of an essay. Subheading are encouraged. It should have a
proper title page (be sure to include your name and student number, and the name of professor). Include the
song lyrics in an appendix at the end of your paper. The essay must be typed and double-spaced and the
pages are numbered. Pay particular attention to your writing style, spelling and grammar since this will be
taken into consideration in the marking. The paper should be 7 – 10 pages (excluding appendix and reference
page). Students are expected to cite 4 academic sources (including textbook). If you would like feedback on
your assignment, please submit it in a self-addressed envelope and it will be mailed to you once marked.