English Composition - 1st year
Teaches the techniques of English composition with an emphasis on the process of learning to write clearly and effectively and to read analytically.
Objectives:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
1. Compose effective thesis statements;
2. Demonstrate proficiency in writing skills based on the criteria of standard essay structure and English usage;
3. Compose a clear, coherent, unified essay organized around a single central idea and using a variety of techniques for support;
4. Demonstrate understanding of and effective use of paragraph structure, including topic sentences, supporting examples and transition sentences;
5. Demonstrate effective use of introductions and conclusions;
6. Read, analyze and discuss reading with an understanding of structure and mechanics;
7. Employ the various stages of the writing process, including brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising and editing;
8. Identify effective writing techniques in his or her essays and peer writing;
9. Effectively employ quotation, paraphrase and summary;
10. Effectively employ correct citation style, including parenthetical, in-text citation, and works-cited pages;
11. Employ various forms of support for claims, including concrete, significant and specific examples, illustrations, anecdotes, facts and reasons;
12. Demonstrate an ability to recognize and avoid plagiarism;
13. Evaluate sources for relevance and reliability;
14. Demonstrate ability to write for an academic audience.
Topics:
Course topics will include the following:
1. Essay structure (introduction, body, conclusion)
2. Paragraph structure (topic sentence, supporting example, transition sentences)
3. Basic rhetorical modes (narration, description, comparison/contrast, cause & effect)
4. Writing process (brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising, editing)
5. Thesis statements
6. Fundamentals of persuasive writing: supporting claims, acknowledging counter-arguments, making concessions
7. Effective use of quotation, paraphrase and summary
8. Stylistics (syntax, vocabulary, conciseness, creating interest, tone)
9. Correct paper formatting
10. Grammar & mechanics as needed
11. Responding to and discussing assigned readings
Method of Instruction:
1. Lecture
2. Seminar discussion
3. In-class composition
4. Peer-revision
5. Assigned readings
Types of Assignments:
1. Short papers
2. Informal writing assignments, such as responses to readings or journal writing
3. Assigned readings
4. Independent reading
5. Class presentation
Sample Text:
1. Hairston, et al. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers (San Francisco: Longman 2002 or latest edition)
