20%
“Everyone has opinions about what matters in lifespan development. Sometimes we blame it all on our parents – the good and the bad
– but other times we think genes and evolution make for our destinies. Some of us fear for younger generations confronting so many
new risks and challenges, while others long for the freedom and opportunities of contemporary childhood. We often define adult
success by the tangible results of career and family life, yet we also idealize abstract qualities such as happiness and well
being. Most of us dread aging, even while envying the freedom and wisdom of older adults. These contrasting opinions suggest that
the study of lifespan development is inherently controversial”.
Andrew M. Guest
This assignment will provide you with an opportunity to examine and develop a perspective on an issue connected to lifespan
development.
SELECT A CONTEMPORARY ISSUE – For examples: Sexual Orientation: Is an individual’s sexual orientation determined by genetic code or
social/environmental influences?
Use the following framework to organize your analysis:
1. Begin with an introductory 1st paragraph containing a topic question, teaser and framework.
2. Describe in the 2nd paragraph the issue and identify a researched perspective. Review relevant literature that supports the
perspective.
3. In the 3rd paragraph make a connection between a developmental theory discussed in class (or an alternative that you have
chosen) and the issue.
4. In the 4th paragraph discuss a moral implication for various decisions affecting individuals that are impacted by the issue i.e.
laws, treatments, social supports.
5. In the 5th paragraph propose a current and potential solution to resolve the issue and implications for directions in practice
for social service workers.
This assignment must not exceed 2 pages, double-spaced, 12 – point font, Times Roman (excluding title page and references).
Assignment #3 Checklist
Category Requirements Mark Allotted
Knowledge
and
Understanding
Begin with an introductory 1st paragraph containing a topic question, teaser and framework.
(Reference #1)
Describe the issue and identify a perspective. (2nd paragraph)
Review relevant literature that supports the perspective.
(Reference #2 and #3)
Make a connection between the developmental theory discussed in class and the issue.
(3rd paragraph)
(Reference #4)
4 Marks
4 Marks
2 Marks
Application
Discuss a moral implication for various decisions affecting individuals impacted by the issue i.e. laws, treatments, social
supports. (4th paragraph)
(Reference #5)
4 Marks
Synthesis
Propose a current and potential solutions to resolve the issue.
Discuss implications for directions in practice for social service workers.
(5thparagraph)
2 Marks
4 Marks
Support Research
A minimum of 5 references included.
5 Marks
Grammar, Spelling, Punctuation and Clarity, APA
Proper title stated as a question.
Proper framework including introductory paragraph.
(1st paragraph + remainder of essay) 1 Mark
4 Marks
Total 30 Marks