English 101 - Reading & Composition
This course is designed for transfer-level students or for those who want to develop a competence in college level reading and composition. Students will read, analyze, discuss, and think critically using a variety of works and
sources.
Course Outline
In this class we will analyze rhetorical situations with the intent of not only sharpening our critical thinking and reading skills, but also strengthening our ability to write effectively no matter what the setting. Considerable attention will be devoted to the writing process, particularly invention and revision. Upon successful completion of the course the student will be able to:
Objectives
Upon successful completion of the course the student will be able to:
1. Read, analyze, discuss, and evaluate a variety of texts.
2. Identify arguments, patterns, and strategies in a variety of texts.
3. Write, revise, and edit a total of at least 6,000 graded words.
4. Compose a variety of essays that demonstrate increasing familiarity with and expertise in academic writing.
5. Select a variety of research strategies using appropriate documentation.
6. Apply critical thinking in reading, writing, and class discussion.
Course Themes
We will begin this course by closely examining the components of analytical writing. We will work through the Elements of Style to understand how rhetorical strategies (e.g., syntax/semantics) are employed by writers to advance their claims and make an impact on society, or to write an intricate and compelling story which unveils a truth about the human experience. We will then explore the power of language by examining how language has shaped our views about ourselves and others through stories and fiction. This course centers on how language has shaped the way we think and make sense of the world around us. It will additionally look at how writers have used language to pose questions about the world around them, often challenging the status quo. Additionally, this course will question the ability of language to evoke empathy and ire, and to spur social change for better or worse.
Activities & Assignments
All coursework will be submitted via Canvas, a Learning Management System supported by the college district. Please use either Google Chrome or Firefox browsers, as Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge are NOT compatible with Canvas.
Writing Assignments
Students will submit bi-weekly reflections and writing assignments and one final essay of 2,000 words. These essays must be formatted and cited thoroughly and appropriately. You may choose the format you prefer, but MLA and Chicago (notes, not author-date) are highly recommended. You may use MHRA, which is an international format, but only after trying MLA or Chicago first. Word counts are a firm minimum and a firm maximum. Penalties will be administered for going below or above the provided ranges.
Reading Assignments
All readings will be digitally accessible. Expect to set aside about 2 to 4 hours to complete each week’s readings and video content.
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English Course Description
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