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JOHN CABOT UNIVERSITY

COURSE CODE: "EN 103-4"
COURSE NAME: "Intensive English Composition"
SEMESTER & YEAR: Spring 2017
SYLLABUS

INSTRUCTOR: Jonathan Jones
EMAIL: [email protected]
HOURS: MW 8:30AM 9:45AM & 10:00AM 11:45PM
TOTAL NO. OF CONTACT HOURS: 90
CREDITS: 6
PREREQUISITES: This course carries 6 semester hours of credit. Prerequisite: Placement via JCU English Composition Placement Exam
OFFICE HOURS:

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This intensive course has two components. One concentrates on developing the ability to write grammatically and idiomatically correct English prose, and includes an in-depth grammar review and examination of academic register. The other focuses on the elements of academic writing, from sentence structure through effective paragraph writing in essays, and introduces students to the various rhetorical modes. Elements covered include outlining, the introduction-body-conclusion structure, thesis statements, topic sentences, supporting arguments, and transition signals. Students will also become familiar with the fundamentals of MLA style, research and sourcing, as well as information literacy. To develop these skills, students will write in- and out-of-class essays. Critical reading is also integral to the course, and students will analyze peer writing as well as good expository models. Individual students in EN 103 may be required to complete additional hours in the English Writing Center as part of their course requirements. Students must receive a grade of C or above in this course to be eligible to take EN110. Students who receive a grade ranging from C- to D- can take EN105 or repeat EN103. Students who receive an F must repeat EN103.
SUMMARY OF COURSE CONTENT:
The course begins by introducing the students to both the fundamental components of building and developing sentences and paragraphs, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of the writing process and engaging the reader through an awareness of the elements of style which contribute to their writing achieving a high level of readability. This will be reinforced by regular writing activities, which will allow the students to become aware of their own individual voice and ability to apply critical thinking in their academic work. The students will produce three timed in-class essays and three out of class essays in addition to two critical summaries and a final exam. There will be regular, required in-class and at-home assignments such as: Readings Exercises in grammar, revision, and editing.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Midterm Outcomes

By mid-term of EN103 successful (grade of C) students should be able to:

Grammar

·         Write grammatically and idiomatically correct English prose

Punctuation

·         Punctuate sentences correctly

Reading

·         Read to comprehend complex material

·         Read and think critically

Vocabulary

·         Expand vocabulary through reading and writing

·          Develop subject specific terminology through reading and writing

Rhetoric

·         Write academically by constructing effective sentences and paragraphs

·         Summarize

·         Write an outline

·         Understand the introduction-body-conclusion structure

·         Write a strong thesis statement

·         Understand topic sentences and how they shape the paragraph

·         Construct supporting arguments

·         Utilize transition signals to form a paragraph that flows

·         Understand academic register and write for an academic audience

Research and sourcing

Be familiar with research skills including

·         Basic library tools - catalog keyword searches, call numbers, Boolean searches, and reference sources

·         Utilize basic MLA format to submit their work

·         Understand how to avoid plagiarism

End of Course Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete EN103 (with a grade of C or higher) should be able to

Grammar

·         Write grammatically and idiomatically correct English prose with more sophistication

Reading

·         Read to comprehend increasingly complex material

·         Read and think critically

Vocabulary

·         Expand vocabulary through reading and writing

·          Develop subject specific terminology through reading and writing

Rhetoric

·         Write effective paragraphs and essays

·         Summarize

·         Understand how to recognize and utilize rhetorical modes

·         Construct detailed outlines

·         Understand the introduction-body-conclusion structure

·         Write a strong thesis statement

·         Construct topic sentences and supporting arguments

·         Utilize transition signals to form an essay that flows

·         Think, read, and write critically for an academic audience

 

Research and sourcing (can be covered by a librarian in one or more workshops in the library)

·         Be familiar with research skills including

·         Understanding databases, web-based sourcing, and source evaluation

·         Utilize MLA format to cite sources

·         Understand how to avoid plagiarism

To teach students to:

  • Understand and correctly apply the rules of standard English grammar.
  • Develop a clear and effective prose style consistent with contemporary academic writing practices.
  • Write and edit persuasively. To use the rules of grammar and expository style to communicate meaning effectively
  • Read ,think, and write analytically, critically, and creatively
TEXTBOOK:
NONE
REQUIRED RESERVED READING:
NONE

RECOMMENDED RESERVED READING:
NONE
GRADING POLICY
-ASSESSMENT METHODS:
AssignmentGuidelinesWeight
At Home Essays 25%
In Class Essays 25%
Critical Summaries 15%
Homework /Quizzes/Class Particpation 15%
Final Exam 20%

-ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
AWork of this quality directly addresses the question or problem raised and provides a coherent argument displaying an extensive knowledge of relevant information or content. This type of work demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate concepts and theory and has an element of novelty and originality. There is clear evidence of a significant amount of reading beyond that required for the co
BThis is highly competent level of performance and directly addresses the question or problem raised.There is a demonstration of some ability to critically evaluatetheory and concepts and relate them to practice. Discussions reflect the student’s own arguments and are not simply a repetition of standard lecture andreference material. The work does not suffer from any major errors or omissions and provides evidence of reading beyond the required assignments.
CThis is an acceptable level of performance and provides answers that are clear but limited, reflecting the information offered in the lectures and reference readings.
DThis level of performances demonstrates that the student lacks a coherent grasp of the material.Important information is omitted and irrelevant points included.In effect, the student has barely done enough to persuade the instructor that s/he should not fail.
FThis work fails to show any knowledge or understanding of the issues raised in the question. Most of the material in the answer is irrelevant.

-ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

·       

 If you are unable to attend a class session, you should make arrangements with one or more of your classmates to catch up on anything you missed. While illness and emergencies are often unavoidable and understandable,this does not affect how the absence policy will be applied.

· You are allowed 3 absences during the semester. Any absences after this will have a detrimental effect on your final grade. Any student with more than 3 absences at mid-term will receive a mid-term warning. After 5 absences you will receive another warning informing you that your chances of passing the course are now at risk. Seven absences and you fail the course.


Keep in mind that it will be difficult for you to make up missed peer reviews, small group discussions, and spoken lectures and instructions. Even if you are not able to attend, you are still responsible for making sure any assignments due that day are in my hands by the start of class.

 

Laptops and Cellphones are not permitted in class unless specifically required for the purposes of an in-class writing assignments.

Disruptive behavior that results in dismissal from the class at any time during class will be counted as one absence. This includes entering and leaving the class once the lesson has begun, doing work for this class during discussions or doing work for other classes during this class, inappropriate use of the computers (checking on your e-mail while in class, surfing the ‘net, etc), talking to others while someone else is talking, etc.

ACADEMIC HONESTY
As stated in the university catalog, any student who commits an act of academic dishonesty will receive a failing grade on the work in which the dishonesty occurred. In addition, acts of academic dishonesty, irrespective of the weight of the assignment, may result in the student receiving a failing grade in the course. Instances of academic dishonesty will be reported to the Dean of Academic Affairs. A student who is reported twice for academic dishonesty is subject to summary dismissal from the University. In such a case, the Academic Council will then make a recommendation to the President, who will make the final decision.
STUDENTS WITH LEARNING OR OTHER DISABILITIES
John Cabot University does not discriminate on the basis of disability or handicap. Students with approved accommodations must inform their professors at the beginning of the term. Please see the website for the complete policy.

SCHEDULE


Assignments
At Home Essay 1 -  - WORKSHOP  - Due
In Class Essay 1  - WORKSHOP  - Due
At Home Essay 2 - WORKSHOP - Due
In Class Essay 2   - WORKSHOP  - Due
At Home Essay 3 -   - WORKSHOP  - Due
In Class Essay 3  - WORKSHOP   Due

In Class Summary 1 - WORKSHOP - Due
In Class Summary 2 - WORKSHOP  - Due

Library Sessions

Course Outline (NB: This outline is subject to change)

Week 1

 

Date

Topic

Activity

Homework

Session1

Aims and Objectives of ENG 103

Assignments

Expectations

Student Protocol and Behavior in Class

Distribute Syllabus

 

Topic Sentences –Position – Dependent and Independent Clauses

 

 

Transition Signals

 

 

Session 2

Sentence Structure

Pop Quiz - Rules and Expectations for EN 103
 
Paragraph Structure - Writing Academic English

Active v Passive Readers - Annotations

 

Read and Annotate Garrison Keillor’s ‘How to write a letter’

Session 1

 

Sentence Structure

 

Pop Quiz 1 – G Keillor

 

Grammar Review 1

Types of Sentence

 


 

 

 

 

Session 2

 

In Class Writing Activity

In Class Reading and Annotations - A Vindication of the Rights of Women - M Wollstonecraft

Read and Annotate
Why I Write G Orwell

 

 

 

 

 












































Week 2


 

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

 

Session 1

Professions for Women Virginia Woolf

Unity and Coherence

Pop Quiz 3 - A Vindication of the Rights of Women

Process-Chronology Rhetorical Mode

 

Grammar Review  – Run- On Sentences, Fragments Subject/Verb Agreement

 

In-Class Writing

 

 

 

Session 2

Unity and Coherence

Set AT HOME ESSAY 1
Grammar Review 2

Parts of Speech

Critical Summary

 

 

Read and Annotate 'On Self Respect' J Didion

 

Session 1

Unity and Coherence

Grammar Review - Unity and Coherence

Repetition of Key Nouns

Consistent Pronouns

 

IN CLASS SUMMARY 1

 

 

Session 2

Unity and Coherence

Grammar Review -2

Logical Order

 

PP – Style and Simplicity – Do’s and Don’ts

Read and Annotate Essay - Simplicity (Modals for Writers)


Week 3

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1


LIBRARY SESSION 1

Using Outside Sources - Plagiarism

 MLA


 

 

 

 

 

Session 2

Developing Ideas and building sentences

Pop Quiz 4 – Grammar

WORKSHOP IN CLASS SUMMARY 1

Supporting Details

Facts versus Opinions

PP – Writing Clear Sentences

In Class Reading TBA

Read and Annotate
'Professions for Women' Virginia Woolf

 

Session 1

Developing Ideas and building sentences

IN CLASS SUMMARY 1 Due

Pop Quiz 5 – Vocabulary

 

PP – From Paragraph to Essay

 

 

 

Session 2

Developing Ideas and building sentences

 WORKSHOP AT HOME ESSAY 1

Read and Annotate Effective Sentences (Modals for Writers)

Week 4

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Writing Academic English

SUBMIT AT HOME ESSAY 1


PP – Introduction to the Essay

 

Session 2

Writing Academic English

IN CLASS ESSAY 1

 

 

Read and Annotate 'The Lost Generation' Hemingway

 

Session 1

Writing Academic English

Pop Quiz 'The Lost Generation'

PP – Writing an Effective Thesis -1

 

In – Class Writing Activity – Writing Academic English

 

Session 2

Writing Academic English

Read and Annotate in Class - Thesis (Modals for Writers)

 

Read and Annotate Essay 'Scott Fitzgerald' Hemingway

Week 5

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Identifying the Thesis

IN CLASS ESSAY 1 DUE

 Film 'Sincerely Scott Fitzgerald'

 

 

 

Session 2

Identifying the Thesis

IN CLASS SUMMARY 2

PPT and Reading Diction and Tone

Read and Annotate Essay 'My Lost City' Scott Fitzgerald


Session 1

 

Identifying the Thesis

Pop Quiz - Diction and Tone

PP – Writing an Effective Thesis – 2

 

 

Session 2

 

Identifying the Thesis

 

WORKSHOP IN CLASS SUMMARY 2

Read and Annotate Essay 'Mother Tongue' Amy Tan

 

Week 6

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Who is the reader?

SUBMIT IN CLASS SUMMARY 2

PP – Writing the Conclusion

 

 

Session 2

Who is the reader?

PPT – Good Writing

 

Class Discussion – Looking at the essays we have read so far this semester who have each writer been thinking of as their ideal reader? Why?

TBA

 

Session 1

LIBRARY SESSION 2

 

Session 2

Who is the reader?

PPT Critical Reading

Cause and Effect - Rhetorical Mode

Read and Annotate Essay - Why do we crave horror movies?

Week 7

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Editing and Proofreading

Film Excerpts - Various Types of Horror Movie

Class Discussion

Stephen King – Why do we crave horror movies?


 

 

Session 2

 

Editing and Proofreading

SET AT HOME ESSAY 2

PPT 1 - Editing and Proofreading

Proofreading Exercise

Read and Annotate Essay 'Be Specific'

Session 1

Editing and Proofreading

PPT 2 - Editing and Proofreading

Proofreading Exercise

 

Session 2

Editing and Proofreading

Editing and Proofreading Exercise

TBA

Week 8

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Workshop

WORKSHOP AT HOME ESSAY 2

 

 

Session 2

Logos, Ethos, Pathos

TBA

TBA

Session 1

Convincing Arguments

Compare and Contrast Rhetorical Mode

 

Session 2

 

Logos, Ethos, Pathos

TBA

TBA

Week 9

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Argumentative Essays

SUBMIT AT HOME ESSAY 2

 

Session 2

Argumentative Essays

IN CLASS ESSAY 2

TBA

Session 1

Argumentative Essays

Writing Academic English - Argumentative Essays

 

Session 2

Argumentative Essays

WORKSHOP IN CLASS ESSAY 2

Read and Annotate Essay 'Have We No Right to Happiness' by C.S.Lewis

Week 10

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Argumentative Essays

SUBMIT IN CLASS ESSAY 2

 Writing Academic English  - Argumentative Essays

 

Session 2

 

 

Argumentative Essays

 

Read and Annotate - 'The Lost Decade' Scott Fitzgerald

 

Session 1

Argumentative Essays

TBA

 

 

Session 2

 

Argumentative Essays

 

TBA

Read and Annotate Essay 'Hawks do not share' - Hemingway

Week 11

 

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Editing and Proofreading

SET AT HOME ESSAY 3

 

Session 2

Editing and Proofreading

TBA

TBA

Session 1

MLA format

TBA

 

Session 2

MLA format

 

TBA


Week 12

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Review Different Rhetorical Modes

IN CLASS ESSAY 3

 

Session 2

Review Different Rhetorical Modes

TBA

TBA

Session 1

Review Different Rhetorical Modes

TBA

 

Session 2

Workshop

WORKSHOP IN CLASS ESSAY 3

TBA

Week 13

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Exam Prep

IN CLASS ESSAY 3 DUE

 

Session 2

Exam Prep

Exam Prep - Types of Sentences

TBA

WED 23rd NOV
 Session 1

Exam Prep

Exam Prep - Proofreading

Session 2

Exam Prep

Exam Prep - Proofreading

 TBA

Week 14

Topic

Activity

Homework

 

Session 1

Exam Prep

AT HOME ESSAY 3 - DUE

 

Session 2

Exam Prep

Exam Prep Types of Sentences

TBA

 WED 30th NOV

Session 1

Exam Prep

Final Tips for Exam

Session 2

Review of Semester

TBA

TBA


 

Policies on late work :

 

·        Assignments are due at the time and day they are due, this means the beginning of class. Papers are considered late as soon as I begin lecturing. Please take care to note the deadlines announced in class and in this syllabus.

·        One late assignment per student will be accepted without penalty. This does not apply to major paper assignments. Major papers will be penalized 10 points (a full letter grade) for every day they are late up to 30 points. Major papers turned in more than three days late will receive a grade of zero.