Objective:

In this paper, you will compare and contrast recordings from your listening journal entries, demonstrating your understanding of semester topics by analyzing the recordings and diagramming their similarities and differences. You will also choose an overarching analysis topic that unifies your individual analyses into a cohesive argument.

Instructions:

  1. Choose at least three recordings from your listening journal entries for analysis.
  2. Select an overarching analysis topic that will unify your individual recording analyses. This is an argument about something all your recordings share, contrast, or illustrate. For example:
    • The recordings use reverb and space differently, yet each achieves a clear mix in its genre context.
    • The recordings span from dense, compressed mixes to open, and more dynamic ones.
    • The recordings handle low-frequency energy in distinct ways, reflecting the production conventions of each genre.
  3. Refer to the Analysis of sound presentation for guidance on course topics to address.
  4. Revise and expand upon your original analyses from the listening journal entries, reflecting your current understanding of the subject matter.
  5. Create a minimum of four diagrams to visually illustrate the similarities and differences between the recordings, as well as support your overall argument. Use at least three different diagram types, such as frequency plots, holistic sound stages, and stereo image graphs.
  6. Reference the diagrams within the text of your paper using figure numbers. See the linked guide for instructions on automating figure numbers in Word.
  7. When describing aspects of the recordings, include specific timestamps for clarity.

Requirements:

  • Word count: Approximately 1,000 words
  • Diagrams: Include at least four diagrams using at least three different diagram types (frequency plot, holistic sound stage, stereo image graph, loudness graph)
  • Audio format: Use uncompressed recordings (WAV, FLAC, etc.) for analysis; MP3s are not accepted
  • Software: Submit Reaper files used for analysis

Submission Deadline: April 27th

Final Analysis Paper Rubric (50 points)⌗

Content and Analysis (23 points)

  • Depth and accuracy of analysis (8 points)
  • Effective comparison and contrast of recordings (5 points)
  • Demonstration of understanding of course topics (5 points)
  • Selection and effectiveness of overarching analysis topic in tying individual recording analyses together and making a cohesive argument (5 points)

Visual Diagrams (14 points)

  • Inclusion of at least four diagrams (4 points)
  • Use of at least three different diagram types (3 points)
  • Clarity and effectiveness of diagrams in illustrating similarities and differences and supporting the overall argument (7 points)

Organization and Clarity (8 points)

  • Logical structure and flow of the paper (3 points)
  • Clear and concise writing (2 points)
  • Proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation (2 points)
  • Proper referencing of diagrams using figure numbers (1 point)

Technical Requirements (5 points)

  • Adherence to word count (approximately 1,000 words) (2 points)
  • Use of uncompressed audio formats (WAV, FLAC, etc.) (2 points)
  • Submission of Reaper files used for analysis (1 point)

Total: 50 points

Letter Grade Scale:

  • A: 45-50 points
  • B: 40-44 points
  • C: 35-39 points
  • D: 30-34 points
  • F: Below 30 points