Composition I is one of the most important classes you will take in college. Knowing how to read and write well are life skills valued in every field: whether you’re putting together a lab report, preparing a final paper, tweeting, texting, or just sending a short email, written words are usually the first way you interact with people. This class will help you to better understand how to work with words through reading assignments, small and large group discussions, in-class writing and small homework assignments, research, and formal essays.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
- Attendance and participation: you are required to be present both physically and mentally. This means you show up to class with your work completed, you listen actively to the instructor and your classmates, and you contribute regularly to discussion.
- In-class work and homework: depending on the day, you may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of the required readings and in-class discussion through daily assignments which may include (but is not limited to) group work, worksheets, blog posts, and free writing.
- Presentations and Papers: The major assignments for this class include a 5-7 minute formal presentation during the semester and at least four formal essays between 2-10 pages (the length and difficulty of these essays will increase throughout the semester). At least one of these papers will require you to do research. In addition, you will be required to turn in early pieces of the research paper (thesis, outline, and rough drafts).
Texts: There are no required texts for this section of ENG 100A. All readings will be posted online. If you would like to purchase a style guide, you may. Keep in mind, we will be using only MLA format in our class. Suggested guide (can be purchased online): MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th Edition.