For this assignment, write a letter to someone in your local area who cares about diplomacy and world events to bring attention to something important that you’ve discovered about IR during our eight weeks of class.
It could be a businessperson, or your major or governor, or even someone who is running an NGO in your town or state. Be creative. Think about what has made you wonder, “whaaaat?” during the course and provide a solution to the problem.
You don’t need to provide your return address for the assignment, but you’ll need to include it if you decide to send your letter. Provide the name, position, and mailing address of the person you have selected to write. Then write a four paragraph (no more than 2 single spaces pages, including references) letter using this format:
Paragraph 1: introduce yourself and explain the problem;
Paragraph 2: explain the relevant history of the problem (cite your sources);
Paragraph 3: explain concepts and theories related to the problem (cite your sources and relate to course readings); and,
Paragraph 4: propose possible solutions and explain what you want this person to do.
Your letter should have a professional tone and look and follow standard letter format. Add legitimacy to your claims by providing citations using Chicago 16th Author-Date style and include a list of your references (required).
Use 12 pitch, Times New Roman font and 1 inch margins. Include your last name in your file name and upload your work in a .doc or .docx file by Sunday of week 8. A template is attached for your convenience. See also https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/653/01/
It is up to you whether or not you send the letter, but you are encouraged to do so. Civic engagement is crucial in democratic societies.
