Course Description

Builds critical reading and expository writing skills through the analysis and evaluation of college- level texts and the composition of well-organized, full-length essays containing properly documented evidence.

Course Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

· write a thesis-driven essay that is clearly organized, supported by relevant evidence, uses academic prose, and follows up-to-date MLA citation conventions.

· demonstrate critical reading, writing, thinking, and research skills through analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of a variety of material encompassing varying viewpoint

Course Objective

· compose several expository papers from 2 to 7 pages long, totaling 5,000 words, employing such skills as: logical organization, control of diction, awareness of audience and purpose, and adherence to the conventions of academic prose.

· compose timed essay examinations with clear thesis, logical organization, convincing arguments, and specific supporting detail.

· organize and compose a 5-7-page research paper incorporating and accurately documenting a variety of appropriate source materials.

· analyze a variety of essays and at least one book-length work.

· demonstrate critical thinking skills in oral and written discussion of assigned readings.

· identify and assess the main idea of essays and write clear, relevant responses in informal journal entries and formal essays with a clear statement of thesis, focus, or controlling idea.

· utilize the stages of the writing process: generating ideas, drafting, revising, and editing.

· develop paragraphs which incorporate appropriate rhetorical strategies, effective transitions, and convincing support.

Course Philosophy

This class operates on a growth mindset. This means that there is no such thing as a naturally good writer—someone who was born with writing talent and doesn’t have to work at it. We may all have subjects we prefer, but quality writing (or any other product) is the result of hours of practice and hard work. You can all be good writers, but you must be willing to put in the time and effort.