Extracts from the POL 131 module presented below demonstrate how tutorials and assignments are scaffolded to build writing and analysis skills. 

POL 131 Study Guide

Introduction to Political Studies and International Relations

2018

Identity and Belonging

Part 1: Introduction to Political Studies   (Dr. F. Anciano)

This section of the module will introduce students to key concepts in Political Science, with a focus on the idea of power and institutions in a democracy.

Tutorial 1. Orientation

Reflection on module, expectations and ground-rules, etc.

Tutorial 2: Note-taking 

In the lectures this week and last week you will encounter a number of concepts, like politics, power, regimes, state and government. Make sure you are able to identify the key concepts, define them and explain the relationship between them. In your tutorials you will be required to answer a number of questions about the content covered in the lectures. You will be allowed to use your notes from class to do this. You will mark each other’s work for accuracy of content and expression, spelling and punctuation. This tutorial exercise can be used to complete your tutorial assignment 1, due on Wednesday 28 February.

Tutorial 3: Summarising 

Read and summarise in your own words the section entitled ‘Types and Sources of Power’ from Galbraith including:

·        Condign Power

·        Compensatory Power

·        Conditioned Power

·        Personality

·        Property

·        Organisation

Your summary should be no longer than two pages (3 paragraphs a page, one paragraph per concept). In the tutorial form pairs and read the summary of one another. Mark where there are any errors of expression, spelling or punctuation. In the whole tutorial class (plenary), work through the summary by going through the reading paragraph by paragraph. Suggest different ways of expressing the reading in your own words. 

Submit your final, edited, summary to the Department for marking on Friday 9 March at midday. This is your tutorial exercise 2 and counts 5% of you overall mark. 

Tutorial 4: Compare and contrast 

In the tutorial, on a clean sheet of paper draw a vertical line down the middle of the page. On the left half of the page write the word liberalism. In small groups workshop the characteristics of liberalism. Share with the plenary and identify key features. Then break into small groups and do the same on the right hand side of the page for the ideology of the socialism. Then, compare and contrast the two ideologies in the plenary – what do they have in common and in what ways are they different?

Tutorial 5: Criticise

Read the article by Neville Alexander in your reading pack (it is also on Ikamva) before the tutorial. Discuss in your tutorial the main argument Alexander makes in relation to affirmative action. Break into groups and come up with three reasons why you agree with him and three reasons why you disagree with his perspective. Present back to plenary. 

Tutorial 6: Revision.

Tutorial exercises

Tutorial exercise 1: Due midday Wednesday 28 February 2018 (5%)

In the lectures you will encounter a number of concepts, like politics, power, regimes, state, governance and government. You must take notes during lectures and tutorial and be able to use these to answer questions. Using notes from class and your readings answer the following questions: 

1. What are the different ways we can understand the concept of 'politics'? (8 marks) What is your personal definition of 'politics'? (2 marks)

2. List at least five key characteristics of a modern state (5 marks). Choose one of these features and describe it in detail, with reference to South Africa. (5 marks)

Total marks (20)

Answer the questions in paragraph form. You will be marked for accuracy of content and expression, spelling and punctuation. Write your answer in approximately 700 words, typed. You are encouraged to try to reference your work, but you will not be marked on referencing. 

Tutorial exercise 2: Due midday Friday 9 March 2018   (5%)

Read and summarise in your own words the overview from Galbraiths ‘Anatomy of Power’  (p.1- 8) including:

• Condign Power

• Compensatory Power

• Conditioned Power

• Personality

• Property

• Organisation

Your summary should be no longer than two pages (3 paragraphs a page, one paragraph per concept).  You may also use the summary reading of Galbraith for assistance, but you must write in your own words.

Assignment 1     (Dr Anciano)

Submission date: Midday, Thursday 22 March 2018

Drawing on Galbraith's theory of power, critically analyse how different actors use power to influence the policy and implementation of affirmative action (employment equity).

Answer in essay form, but make sure that you

(i)               outline Galbraith’s theory briefly (250-450 words)

(ii)               identify and describe TWO actors who are involved in influencing the policy and implementation of affirmative action in South Africa (such as the ANC, a trade union, a national government department, a civil society group, a political party) (150-200 words)

(iii)            assess which of the TWO actors you have chosen hold more power by

a.                  clarifying which instruments and sources of power each set of actors has access to (400-600 words)

b.                  and how they are using them (250-350 words).

You may use a case study of affirmative action to focus your answer, for example employment equity in the police service in the Western Cape.

 Total 1000 – 1500 words.