The focus of this paper is to explore how residential patterns affect intergroup relations. You will use research approaches such as observation and secondary data analysis to further understand your community. You will need to choose whether you will research your city, county, or state. Be sure to choose a large enough geographic area to perform meaningful analysis. For example, if you live in Hawaii, you may want to research your state. If you live in a small town, you may want to research your county. If you live in Atlanta or another big city, researching at the city level should be fine.

Step 1: Using Secondary Data
Use the data gathered on your chosen locality in the Week Three assignment, “Demographic Report,” . If more data is needed, use demographic data from the latest census (available online using the US Census American FactFinder) and identify the various social and economic characteristics (i.e., education, population, housing, race, class, etc.) of this locale. You can also check government websites for your state, county or city for data. Present your findings in two to three pages of the paper.

Step 2: Using an Observational Study 
Taking the information you have gathered in Step 1 regarding social and economic characteristics, and take 30 to 60 minutes observing your community or use a newspaper if you’re unable to physically go to your community. Take notes of what you observe. Compare this data to what was found in the census data and make note if there are differences. Present your findings in one to two pages of the paper.

Step 3: Analysis and Reporting of Research
Analyze your data and present your responses in two to three pages in the paper:

• Describe how segregated the neighborhoods are in your locality. Be sure to consider the various social inequality indicators: race, ethnicity, class, gender, and perhaps sexuality for some areas.
• Indicate if there are policies, practices, or specific circumstances that have created and maintained these patterns.
  

  Here are some examples of aspects to consider: Historically, has there always been racial segregation or not? Was it traditionally an area of immigration from a certain ethnic region? Is there an LGBT community? Was it an industrial area that had a strong working class community, or is it a technology area with highly educated citizens? Have there been efforts to desegregate or plans in the future?

• In Chapter 1 and throughout the text, you have explored several sociological theoretical perspectives. Indicate which theoretical perspective best presents your analysis of your locality. Describe why you have chosen this theoretical perspective and ensure you include detail on which theorist’s work is most representative.

The Research Paper:

• Must be seven to nine double-spaced pages in length (excluding title and reference pages), and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
• Must include a title page with the following:
  • Title of paper
  • Student’s name
  • Course name and number
  • Instructor’s name
  • Date submitted
• Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.
• Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
• Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
• Must use at least five scholarly resources, including a minimum of two from the Ashford University Library.
• Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
• Must include a separate reference page