PWR 2LSA: Writing about Cities
An estimated 4.4 billion people—approximately 56% of the world’s population—live in cities and that number is expected to double by 2050 (World Bank). Cities offer unparalleled public services, economic opportunities, and vibrant culture. Yet, they also face pressing challenges in planning, affordability, and climate resiliency. This class explores the future of cities: How will cities evolve? What forces will shape their transformation? How can urban spaces be reimagined to be more inclusive, sustainable, and technologically advanced?
What you might not realize is that cities are constantly changing—and the way we communicate the promises and problems of cities will shape what’s possible. As a project-based course, you will have the opportunity to select a topic about cities to research that is meaningful for your life, interests, or future major. We’ll draw on scholarly research across disciplines (e.g., urban planning, architecture, history, environmental studies, public policy, cultural studies, sociology, or technology) and public sources (e.g., newspapers, social media, documentaries) to synthesize multiple perspectives about the topic. Throughout the process, you will switch between writing and speaking to refine and focus your argument. Whether you are interested in urban planning, environmental sustainability, public policy, or simply the ways cities impact daily life, this course will challenge you to think critically and communicate compellingly about the future of cities.
Examples of Research Topics
- urban planning topics, including public transportation; street design and parking; walkable cities; access to shade and parks; gentrification; food deserts
- urban culture and community topics, including public and street art; memorials and monuments; placemaking; third spaces; sidewalk culture; universal design; defensive architecture
- environmental sustainability topics, including adaptation to extreme heat or rising sea levels; energy efficient designs; green roofs; renewable energy production; water conservation; urban agriculture; or air quality
- public policy topics, including local governance and elections; urban crime and policing; public education; zoning and affordable housing
- technology topics, including intelligent traffic management, autonomous vehicles, IoT and sensor networks monitoring streetlights, air quality, alert systems; smart grids; predictive policing; public wi-fi; open data platforms
- ...and so much more!
PWR 2 Assignment Sequence
Research Proposal
(5 minute live oral presentation; written text of 600-1200 words) You will select a topic about cities, examine the relevant literature, and propose a research question that will contextualize and drive your project.
Written Research-Based Argument
(3000-3600 words; 10-12 pages) You will write a deeply researched, persuasive argument about your topic for a relevant disciplinary audience.
Delivery of Research
(10 minute live oral presentation with appropriate multimedia support) You will translate your written argument and present it to an undergraduate symposium.
Genre/Mode Assignment
(research journal maintained through the quarter) To help organize your research, you will maintain a research journal, which will include reflections on class texts, memos on your work, peer workshop, storyboards, data visualizations, etc. You will complete entries both during class and for homework.