1. Select a social issue/problem in Canada that interests you from one of the following areas covered in the course: crime, poverty, social stratification, ethnic/racial inequality, gender inequality, or inequality based on sexual orientation or religion. Choose a subject area that interests you – it can be a general issue such as the wage gap between men and women in Canada, or a more specific topic such as poverty among visible minority women. I advise getting my approval on the social issue you want to discuss. It must be a social issue in Canada.
2. Do research on this issue to determine the nature and extent of the problem in Canadian society. I expect you to find, use, and reference at least 3 different types of resources whe
Your written assignment must include the following elements:
a) A brief overview of the social issue selected – what is the problem? Who is it a problem for?
b) A statement outlining your reasons for selecting this social issue over other issues – why do you believe it is important to study.
c) A summary of the major points from the 3 different resources used for this assignment. Explain which of the 3 resources was the most useful to you in terms of understanding the issue and why.
d) Provide an analysis of this social problem through the lens of one of the four sociological perspectives covered in the course (Functionalism, Conflict theory, Feminism, or Symbolic Interactionism). Make sure your answer demonstrates your understanding of the main elements of the perspective you choose AND how they apply in your specific case. Ex: How would the functionalist perspective view and explain the issue of juvenile crime?
e) Suggest a possible reform (social policies, political action, education…) for dealing with the negative consequences of the social issue. Be specific in your answer.
f) Locate an organization/program that provides services and support for those groups dealing with the social issue. Provide a brief overview of the organization in terms of who they are and what services they provide. Do not contact the organization.