essay – 50% this essay is worth 50% of the course grade. students are expected to write a formal paper that defines play and synthesizes this definition with the work of one or more primary sources*. students may also use secondary or tertiary resources to support their work**. the student is expected to discuss the concept of play in relation to theory (developmental psychology, anthropology, curriculum theory, philosophy of education) and a particular discussion point: 1. the significance of cognitive development and play 2. understanding the world: play as a vehicle to understanding what it means to be a member of community 3. the politics of play: the role of power, privilege, and hierarchy 4. free play: the promise and or limitations of self-regulation and self-initiated learning 5. play as “need”: exploring the social value of play 6. constructivist views on play: negotiating the balance between play and structured project work. 7. bringing the united nations into the early learning setting: article 31 and program planning grading rubic: 1. identifies and succinctly articulates a clear problem/question for the paper. summarizes paper''s intent. thesis is clearly stated with a main problem/question as well as subsidiary, integrated issues. goes beyond the basics of the issue and into the complex nuances. 2. use of primary sources as well as relevant secondary/tertiary sources are identified, discussed, analyzed, and synthesized. student uses apa referencing http://library.senecacollege.ca/research_help/citing_sources/apa_guide.html Examines primary, secondary, and tertiary sources and examine accuracy, relevance, and pertinence. Logical synthesis with smooth transitions between ideas and concepts. 3. Synthesis of student''s own viewpoint, perspective, position, hypothesis, critical analysis is fully integrated into the paper. Identifies own position in relation to the ideas of others. Makes use of various theories as well as personal experiences and original examples to support this perspective. Discussion of implications for reflective practice. 4. Conclusion is contextualized ideas and includes a discussion of implications, direction for future studies, and changes in one''s views, opinions, understanding, and assertions. A clear and concise discussion of the problem/question placed into context based on the primary sources in the paper. Strong evidence of new learnings as well as direction for future studies and future actions.