Close reading: Empirical Humor

The following studies use empirical reasoning in order to make ahumorous observation. Despite the intention, each of the following usesan experimental design and can be evaluated as an empirical argument.The assignment focuses on food, since it’s something that everyone knowswell! Select one of the following to study in more detail.

• The Stinky Meat project.This site contains two different experiments so select one. For thosewith weak stomachs, be advised that the experiment involves observingthe decomposition of food.
• My Children: The Food Experiment
• Living off food storage: Part 1 and Part 2

Write a short response (3-4 paragraphs) that summarizes the goalof the experiment and the solution. Use the provided context clues toconduct an evaluation of the experiment by following the guidelines inthe textbook. Was this well designed? What worked? What would youchange? Be sure to use clear evidence from the textbook to support yourreading.

Your work will be scored by the following criteria.

Criteria	Max. Points available
Content: In shaping his/her response, thestudent summarizes the goal of the experiment and the solution. Thestudent describes if it was well designed and explains what worked andwhat he/she might change. He/she applies vocabulary from the lessoncorrectly and uses specific examples to shape his/her discussion.	30
Influences and Valid Conclusions: Thestudent provides context clues to conduct an evaluation of theexperiment by following the guidelines in the textbook while usingevidence from the text to draw inferences or valid conclusions.	10
Grammar/Mechanics: The assignment has been proofread and spellchecked prior to submission. There are no errors that impede comprehension.	5
Total Possible Points	45