This course seeks to integrate three distinct, complementary approaches: a review of grammar and sentence-level work to improve your eloquence, work on critical reading to improve your ability to analyze, summarize and expand upon your reading, and experimentation with rhetorical modes to improve the organization and logic of your writing. The aim is to weave these three threads together into a sort of hammock that you can rely upon to support you in whatever writing you do in the future. It is up to you, however, to make it swing!
Specifically, we will be reading and discussing essays from your text and other sources, including op-ed articles from the New York Times, which will also serve to provide material for your writing. You will write four essays in class and another three at home. For most at-home essays, I will give comments but no grade to the initial draft, which you will then rewrite and turn in to be graded. In general, essays will be of 5-7 paragraphs with 5-7 sentences each. Some of this work will be evaluated by your classmates. Class time will also be spent discussing and practicing the various rhetorical modes (illustration, cause and effect, compare and contrast, etc.).
We will also be using MyCompLab, a very effective, user-friendly online grammar assessment and learning tool. You will be required to buy into this service and to complete a series of individualized interactive grammar assignments as an integral part of the course. This will free up our class time for more discussion on essays and writing issues, although, when necessary, some grammar and structural problems will be reviewed in class as well.
HOMEWORK
Reading: You will read chapters in your text in addition to at least one essay a week. You may be asked to write a summary, identify and use new vocabulary and/or to answer questions. Always underline key phrases and sentences when you read to help you identify and focus on the main ideas. This will also be useful for in-class discussions and for quick reference during in-class writing.
Grammar: You will have regular MyCompLab assignments whose quantity will vary according to your proficiency.
Writing: All longer written assignments (paragraphs, essays and responses to readings) must be typed. Make sure you leave time to print them out before class, if necessary. Unexcused late papers will be penalized.
Keep all your written work in a folder, which is essential for final evaluation. We will review this portfolio together towards the end of the semester.
Format for assignments written at home:
- Typewritten on standard (A4) paper
- Double-spaced to leave room for corrections
- Paragraphs indented but no extra spaces between them
- Name and date in the top left corner of the first page
- Title centered over the essay, appropriately capitalized
There
is no official midterm. The final exam will be a 2 ½-hour composition
during exam week. Any changes from the syllabus regarding the dates of
in-class writings will be announced at least one week in advance.