FIRST, read the article "The Kitty Genovese Murder: What Really Happened" by Jessica McBirney.

NEXT, watch this video on the Kitty Genovese murder and the bystander effect.

Once you have read the article AND have watched the video, answer the questions in the writing prompt below.

Prompt:

Based on the article "The Kitty Genovese Murder: What Really Happened?" and the video, how did Kitty Genovese's murder shed light on human nature in the event of conflict? What is the bystander effect? In addition, what can we learn about how the media portrays tragedy? Cite evidence from the article AND the video and form your own opinions.

Assignment:

Complete the Graphic Organizer under these instructions, filling in ALL of the boxes. Use the Writer's Checklist below to make sure you have met the assignment requirements. Submit the link to your completed graphic organizer in the Unit 3 Lesson 13 assessment. Make sure the share settings are set to "Anyone with the link can EDIT." Use these instructions if you need help with your share settings.

Writer's Checklist:

I completed all parts of the graphic organizer.

I included the TAG (Title, Author, and Genre) in my introductory sentence..

The thesis (main claim) of my response is clearly stated in the introductory sentence.

I used at least one direct quote from the passage as evidence to support my claims.

I used at least one example from the video as evidence to support my claims.

My analysis clearly explains HOW my evidence supports my claims.

My concluding statement sums up my evidence and explains how the evidence relates to the thesis (main claim).

My response is written in complete sentences.

I used proper grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.

I set the share settings in my Google document to "Anyone with the link can EDIT."

1 answer

Here's a suggested outline for your graphic organizer based on the assignment instructions you've provided. You can adapt this content into your own writing style or format as needed.

Graphic Organizer

1. Introduction:

TAG: Title: "The Kitty Genovese Murder: What Really Happened," Author: Jessica McBirney, Genre: Article.
Thesis Statement: Kitty Genovese's murder not only highlighted the darker aspects of human nature during conflict but also exemplified the bystander effect, showing how media portrayal can distort the gravity of tragedy.

2. Body Paragraph 1: The Bystander Effect

Definition: The bystander effect refers to a social psychological phenomenon where individuals are less likely to offer help to a victim when other people are present.
Evidence from the Article: McBirney notes, “Many witnesses assumed someone else would call for help, leading to a deadly delay in response.”
Analysis: This demonstrates how the presence of others can lead to a diffusion of responsibility, ultimately resulting in tragic consequences, as seen in Genovese's case.

3. Body Paragraph 2: Human Nature During Conflict

Observation: The responses of the witnesses revealed unsettling truths about human nature, particularly in high-stress situations.
Evidence from the Video: The video states that out of the thirty-eight witnesses, not a single person intervened in the attack, illustrating a chilling detachment.
Analysis: This detachment can be attributed to fear, apathy, or the assumption that someone else would act, exposing the dark side of human nature when faced with violence.

4. Body Paragraph 3: Media Portrayal of Tragedy

Observation: The media played a pivotal role in framing Kitty’s murder, often overstating or sensationalizing details for impact.
Evidence from the Article: McBirney writes, “Media coverage transformed this personal tragedy into a sensational story that incited public outrage and fear.”
Analysis: This sensationalism can skew public perception, leading to misconceptions about the nature of the events and the individuals involved, which can lead to societal panic rather than constructive dialogue.

5. Conclusion:

Restate Thesis: The Kitty Genovese murder reveals critical insights into the bystander effect and human nature, largely influenced by the media.
Concluding Statement: Understanding these dynamics teaches us not only about human behavior in times of crisis but also about the responsibility that comes with witnessing tragedy—urging us to be more proactive rather than passive observers.

Make sure to review this content against the Writer's Checklist and adjust any sections as needed to fit your observations and insights. Good luck with your assignment!