Andrew Hall's English Page
Essay 1- English A Section 15 Mon/Wed evening class
Write a 3-5 page paper choosing one of the following:
A) respond to Question #2 p. 56 in Growing Ideas
B) Using the Gary Soto essay as a model, write a review of a concert you went to. Describe what it was like:
Who was performing? What songs did they sing? How did the audience react? What was the venue like?
What did the artist do or say in the show that was really unique? How would you classify such an artist? Who would you compare him or her to?
C) Explicate the words of a favorite song or poem and tell us what the writer wants us to express. Give us a little background information on the singer/poet so we know what context it is in.
Be sure and photocopy the words and attach to back of essay. (Make sure the singer wrote the song. It might be a cover song.)
Make sure the essay follows the criteria laid out in the syllabus!
You won't be responsible for MLA Style yet.
Due Monday, Feb. 9th
Essay 1- English A- Sec 11 MWF afternoon class
Write a 3-5 page paper choosing one of the following:
A) respond to Question #2 p. 56 in Growing Ideas.
B) Using the Gary Soto essay as a model, write a review of a concert you went to. Describe what it was like:
Who was performing? What songs did they sing? How did the audience react? What was the venue like?
What did the artist do or say in the show that was really unique? How would you classify such an artist? Who would you compare him or her to?
C) Explicate the words of a favorite song or poem and tell us what the writer wants us to express. Give us a little background information on the singer/poet so we know what context it is in.
Be sure and photocopy the words and attach to back of essay. (Make sure the singer wrote the song. It might be a cover song.)
Make sure the essay follows the criteria laid out in the syllabus!
You won't be responsible for MLA Style yet.
Due Friday Feb 6th
Syllabus for English A Instructor: Andrew Hall
Class Time and Location BEH 134 M, W 5:30-6:45 Sec 14
Texts and Other Materials
Growing Ideas: A Reader for Writers (Christopherson)
Writing Skills Handbook (Bazerman/Wiener)
White loose-leaf paper, blue or black pens, and a folder for assignments and drafts
A stapler and paper clips (2" clips work best) for assembling essay packets
A college-level dictionary
Course Description
English A is a writing-intensive workshop that provides opportunities for students to learn and practice college-level critical reading and essay writing strategies. Essays are typically based on personal experience to allow students to feel comfortable with their content while they work to master the essay form.
Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:
Demonstrate critical reading skills by identifying the main idea, supporting points, and specific evidence in short essays or articles.
Work through the writing process—invention, planning, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing--in order to create a finished product.
Show mastery of the essay form, including:
a clear, significant thesis that reflects the purpose
sufficient relevant supporting evidence
clear structure, including an effective introduction and conclusion, unified body paragraphs, and appropriate transitions between ideas.
appropriate, specific language.
clear, correct sentences that follow accepted rules of grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
presentation in accordance with MLA guidelines for document design.
Grading
The English A course grade of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory is based on a final portfolio submitted at the end of the semester. The final portfolio consists of the three best formal essays and the final. In order to earn a Satisfactory grade for the course, all four portfolio pieces must demonstrate mastery of the objectives listed above. Mastery is measured on a scale of 1-6. Essays must score at least a three (3) in all categories in order to earn a Satisfactory grade. See Essay Evaluation Criteria on page 3 of this syllabus.
Assignments
Daily Assignments: Daily assignments include readings, informal writing assignments, quizzes, and other class activities. Check the syllabus to see which assignments should be completed in preparation for class each day.
Formal essays: Students will work through the writing process to complete at least four 3-5 page formal essays. Since learning the writing process is one of our objectives, each essay must be accompanied by all related workpapers and show a sincere effort to respond to comments on any previous drafts. Drafts that do not meet these requirements will not be accepted.
Exams: The midterm and the final exam will be timed essays in which you will respond to a reading. The final will not be graded by me, but by an objective team of composition instructors.
Policies
Attendance: Attendance and participation are required. To accommodate unavoidable absences due to illness or emergency, students are allowed up to the equivalent of three weeks of class (; 6 days for a Tuesday-Thursday class) without penalty. Absences exceeding the equivalent of three weeks result in a final grade of Unsatisfactory. Coming to class late or unprepared, ignoring in-class instructions, and leaving early may each be counted as a half-absence. In all cases, students are responsible for both the assignments and the content for the days they are absent.
Late Work: Being absent is not an excuse for late work. I will not accept an essay after the due date unless the student makes arrangements with me on or before that date.
Plagiarism: Plagiarism is using someone’s words or ideas without giving that person credit. Some plagiarism is unintentional, but it is still a serious error that must be corrected before I will accept the paper for a grade. Intentional plagiarism may result in failing the entire course and will be reported to the Student Academic Affairs Office.
Campus Resources
Writing Center: One-on-one help with your writing is available free of charge at the Writing Center, located in FDH 240. Appointments may be made in person or by calling 895-3908. When going to an appointment, take a copy of the assignment, your most recent draft, and any feedback you have received from me. Help is also available at satellite locations in the dorms and on-line at http://www.unlv.edu/Colleges/Liberal_Arts/English/Writing_Center/.
Instructor: You can contact me in the following ways:
Office hours: M 4-5, W 4-5, F 3:30-4:30
Office phone and voice mail: 895-1492
Email: hallawayjoe@hotmail.com
WebCT: TBA
Special Accommodations: If you have a documented disability that requires assistance, you will need to go to Disability Services (DS) for coordination in your academic accommodations. DS is located within the Learning Enhancement Services in the Reynolds Student Services Center Room 137. The DS phone is 895-0866 (TDD 895-0652).
Essay Evaluation Criteria
Each essay should present a clear argument through the essay form. Essential components include:
A clear, significant thesis that reflects the purpose.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Relevant evidence gathered from experience, observation, and/or reading that supports the thesis.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Clear structure, including an effective introduction and conclusion, unified body paragraphs, and appropriate transitions between ideas.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Appropriate, specific language.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Clear, correct sentences that follow accepted rules of grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Appropriate presentation of student essays in accordance with MLA guidelines and individual instructor instructions.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Overall score: This is not an average of the individual scores. A serious problem in just one area may pull down the quality of the entire essay.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
The numbers represent the follow grading scale:
1. Problems are so serious that the essay is clearly not passing. Major improvements are necessary.
2. The essay shows some ability, but the potential of the draft is not developed, either because of a lack of effort or a lack of ability. Major improvements are necessary.
3. The essay barely meets the basic requirements, so attention must be given to all instructor comments before it may be included in the final portfolio.
4. The essay clearly meets the basic requirements, but could be improved before including it in the final portfolio. Minor improvements are recommended.
5. The essay clearly exceeds the basic requirements, but could be improved before including it in the final portfolio. Minor improvements are recommended.
6. The essay clearly exceeds the basic requirements and shows ability and effort above that required to pass the class.
Schedule of Assignments
This is a tentative schedule. More specific instructions, as well as any changes in the schedule will be announced in class. It is your responsibility to check with me or a classmate if you are absent to be sure that you are meeting all class requirements. Quizzes are not listed since you are to be prepared for a quiz at any time.
Readings are from: GI = Growing Ideas WSH = Writing Skills Handbook
WEEK ONE (January 20-23) Introduction to the course
Monday Before class: Enroll in class and find classroom.
During class: Happy Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Wednesday Before class: Buy textbooks and supplies.
Read GI xi-xii, GI 1-6 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Marking the Text."
During class: Complete Diagnostic Essay
WEEK TWO (January 26-30) The Reading Process
Monday Before class: Read GI 7-24.
During class: Discuss the readings and the Diagnostic Essay
Wednesday Before class: Read GI 25-56.
During class: Discuss the readings and Essay #1 assignment.
WEEK THREE (February 2-6) The Writing Process
Monday Before class: Read WSH 1-1e(1), 3c
During class: Participate in workshop: invention, planning, and drafting.
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH 1e(2)- 1f and complete Essay #1 draft.
During class: Participate in workshop: revision and editing.
WEEK FOUR (February 9-13) Critical Reading: Identifying the Main Idea
Monday Before class: Submit Essay #1 for feedback.
Read GI 57-76 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Finding the Thesis."
During class: Discuss readings.
Wednesday Before class: Read GI 77-106., Read WSH 3-3c and draft a thesis statement for Essay #2.
During class: Discuss readings and assignment for Essay #2 , Participate in workshop: thesis statements.
WEEK FIVE (February 16-20) Effective essays: thesis, evidence, structure
Monday NO CLASS
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH Chapters 2 and 5 and WSH 3d-h and draft Essay #2.
During class: Participate in workshop: evidence and structure.
WEEK SIX (February 23-27) Effective essays: language, sentences, presentation
Monday Before class: Read WSH Chapters 6, 11 and 18.
During class: Participate in workshop: language / sentences
Wednesday Before class: Prepare Essay #2 for submission, paying special attention to all workshop topics.
During class: Submit Essay #2 for feedback.
WEEK SEVEN (March 1-5) Reading comprehension: supporting points / specific evidence
Monday Before class: Read GI 107-111, 409 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Making an Outline."
Read WSH 4a.
Read GI 162-165 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Writing a Summary."
During class: Participate in workshop: outlines / summaries
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH 4b.
Read GI 219-224 and GI 302-306 and complete assignments in "Lesson: Writing About Reading" and "Lesson: Using Examples and Quotations from a Reading,"
During class: Participate in workshop: response essays
WEEK EIGHT (March 8-12) Timed-essay skills
Monday Before class: Read GI 358-359.
During class: Discuss "Lesson: Writing an In-class Essay" and midterm exam, portfolios, and conferences.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare for midterm by reviewing all "Lessons" in GI.
During class: Take Midterm exam.
WEEK NINE (March 15-19) Portfolio workshops / conferences
Monday Before class: Revise Essay #1 and #2.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare midterm portfolio for submission.
During class: Submit midterm portfolio for evaluation.
WEEK TEN (March 22-26) Mid-semester conferences / March 26 : Last possible day to drop class.
No classes are scheduled, but failing to attend a conference counts as 2 absences. Conferences will be held in my office, . Write your scheduled conference time here so you don't forget.
Day: _________________________ Date: ______________________ Time: ________________
Before conference: Use my comments to further revise and edit Essay #1 and #2. Write a one-page cover sheet explaining how your writing has improved since the beginning of the semester and which areas you think still need work.
During conference: We will discuss strengths and weaknesses in your writing and factors that affect improvement such as attendance, participation, completion of assignments, and use of Writing Center.
WEEK ELEVEN (March 29-April 2) Practice and review
Monday Before class: Read GI 110-160.
During class: Discuss readings and assignment for Essay #3
Wednesday Before class: Draft Essay #3.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Spring Break
WEEK TWELVE (April 12-16) Practice and review
Monday Before class: Prepare Essay #3 for submission.
During class: Submit Essay #3 for feedback.
Wednesday Before class:
During class: Discuss readings and Essay #4 assignment .
WEEK THIRTEEN (April 19-23) Practice and review
Monday Before class: Draft Essay #4.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare Essay #4 for submission.
During class: Submit Essay #4 for feedback.
WEEK FOURTEEN (April 26-30) Practice and review
Monday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Participate in workshop: TBA
Discuss final portfolio, including final exam.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Participate in workshop: TBA
WEEK FIFTEEN (May 3-7) Practice and review
Monday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Complete course evaluation.
Complete practice final exam.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Submit final portfolio.
Final Exam: Wednesday May 12, 6pm
Note: As indicated, this is a tentative schedule. I will add readings which will be available on electronic reserve. I will probably switch around the schedule, and nature of the essay assignments to some degree. The things that won't change are the due dates. If you are absent, you may miss a change I make in the schedule, so be sure and contact a fellow classmate, or email me.
Syllabus for English A Instructor: Andrew Hall
Class Time and Location FDH 217 2:30-3:20 MWF
Sec 11
Texts and Other Materials
Growing Ideas: A Reader for Writers (Christopherson)
Writing Skills Handbook (Bazerman/Wiener)
White loose-leaf paper, blue or black pens, and a folder for assignments and drafts
A stapler and paper clips (2" clips work best) for assembling essay packets
A college-level dictionary
Course Description
English A is a writing-intensive workshop that provides opportunities for students to learn and practice college-level critical reading and essay writing strategies. Essays are typically based on personal experience to allow students to feel comfortable with their content while they work to master the essay form.
Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:
Demonstrate critical reading skills by identifying the main idea, supporting points, and specific evidence in short essays or articles.
Work through the writing process—invention, planning, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing--in order to create a finished product.
Show mastery of the essay form, including:
a clear, significant thesis that reflects the purpose
sufficient relevant supporting evidence
clear structure, including an effective introduction and conclusion, unified body paragraphs, and appropriate transitions between ideas.
appropriate, specific language.
clear, correct sentences that follow accepted rules of grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
presentation in accordance with MLA guidelines for document design.
Grading
The English A course grade of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory is based on a final portfolio submitted at the end of the semester. The final portfolio consists of the three best formal essays and the final. In order to earn a Satisfactory grade for the course, all four portfolio pieces must demonstrate mastery of the objectives listed above. Mastery is measured on a scale of 1-6. Essays must score at least a three (3) in all categories in order to earn a Satisfactory grade. See Essay Evaluation Criteria on page 3 of this syllabus.
Assignments
Daily Assignments: Daily assignments include readings, informal writing assignments, quizzes, and other class activities. Check the syllabus to see which assignments should be completed in preparation for class each day.
Formal essays: Students will work through the writing process to complete at least four 3-5 page formal essays. Since learning the writing process is one of our objectives, each essay must be accompanied by all related workpapers and show a sincere effort to respond to comments on any previous drafts. Drafts that do not meet these requirements will not be accepted.
Exams: The midterm and the final exam will be timed essays in which you will respond to a reading. The final will not be graded by me, but by an objective team of composition instructors.
Policies
Attendance: Attendance and participation are required. To accommodate unavoidable absences due to illness or emergency, students are allowed up to the equivalent of three weeks of class (9 days for a Monday-Wednesday-Friday class) without penalty. Absences exceeding the equivalent of three weeks result in a final grade of Unsatisfactory. Coming to class late or unprepared, ignoring in-class instructions, and leaving early may each be counted as a half-absence. In all cases, students are responsible for both the assignments and the content for the days they are absent.
Late Work: Being absent is not an excuse for late work. I will not accept an essay after the due date unless the student makes arrangements with me on or before that date.
Plagiarism: Plagiarism is using someone’s words or ideas without giving that person credit. Some plagiarism is unintentional, but it is still a serious error that must be corrected before I will accept the paper for a grade. Intentional plagiarism may result in failing the entire course and will be reported to the Student Academic Affairs Office.
Campus Resources
Writing Center: One-on-one help with your writing is available free of charge at the Writing Center, located in FDH 240. Appointments may be made in person or by calling 895-3908. When going to an appointment, take a copy of the assignment, your most recent draft, and any feedback you have received from me. Help is also available at satellite locations in the dorms and on-line at http://www.unlv.edu/Colleges/Liberal_Arts/English/Writing_Center/.
Instructor: You can contact me in the following ways:
Office hours: M 4-5 W 4-5 F 3:30-4:30
Office phone and voice mail: 895-1492
Email: hallawayjoe@hotmail.com
WebCT: TBA
Special Accommodations: If you have a documented disability that requires assistance, you will need to go to Disability Services (DS) for coordination in your academic accommodations. DS is located within the Learning Enhancement Services in the Reynolds Student Services Center Room 137. The DS phone is 895-0866 (TDD 895-0652).
Essay Evaluation Criteria
Each essay should present a clear argument through the essay form. Essential components include:
A clear, significant thesis that reflects the purpose.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Relevant evidence gathered from experience, observation, and/or reading that supports the thesis.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Clear structure, including an effective introduction and conclusion, unified body paragraphs, and appropriate transitions between ideas.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Appropriate, specific language.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Clear, correct sentences that follow accepted rules of grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Appropriate presentation of student essays in accordance with MLA guidelines and individual instructor instructions.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
Overall score: This is not an average of the individual scores. A serious problem in just one area may pull down the quality of the entire essay.
1---------------2---------------3---------------4---------------5---------------6
The numbers represent the follow grading scale:
1. Problems are so serious that the essay is clearly not passing. Major improvements are necessary.
2. The essay shows some ability, but the potential of the draft is not developed, either because of a lack of effort or a lack of ability. Major improvements are necessary.
3. The essay barely meets the basic requirements, so attention must be given to all instructor comments before it may be included in the final portfolio.
4. The essay clearly meets the basic requirements, but could be improved before including it in the final portfolio. Minor improvements are recommended.
5. The essay clearly exceeds the basic requirements, but could be improved before including it in the final portfolio. Minor improvements are recommended.
6. The essay clearly exceeds the basic requirements and shows ability and effort above that required to pass the class.
Schedule of Assignments This is a tentative schedule. More specific instructions, as well as any changes in the schedule will be announced in class. It is your responsibility to check with me or a classmate if you are absent to be sure that you are meeting all class requirements. Quizzes are not listed since you are to be prepared for a quiz at any time.
Readings are from: GI = Growing Ideas WSH = Writing Skills Handbook
WEEK ONE (January 20-23) Introduction to the course
Wednesday Before class: Enroll in class and find classroom.
During class: Discuss class policies.
Friday Before class: Buy textbooks and supplies.
Read GI xi-xii.
During class: Complete diagnostic essay.
WEEK TWO (January 26-30) The Reading Process
Monday Before class: Read GI 1-6 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Marking the Text."
During class: Discuss the reading process and results of diagnostic essay.
Wednesday Before class: Read GI 7-24.
During class: Discuss the readings.
Friday Before class: Read GI 25-56.
During class: Discuss the readings and Essay #1 assignment.
WEEK THREE (February 2-6) The Writing Process
Monday Before class: Read WSH 1-1d, 3c
During class: Participate in workshop: invention and planning.
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH 1e(1-2) and draft Essay #1.
During class: Participate in workshop: revision
Friday Before class: Read WSH 1e(3)- 1f and prepare Essay #1 for submission.
During class: Submit Essay #1 for feedback.
WEEK FOUR (February 9-13) Critical Reading: Identifying the Main Idea
Monday Before class: Read GI 57-64 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Finding the Thesis."
During class: Discuss readings.
Wednesday Before class: Read 65-82.
During class: Discuss readings.
Friday Before class: Read 83-106.
During class: Discuss readings and assignment for Essay #2.
WEEK FIVE (February 16-20) Effective essays: thesis, evidence, structure
Monday No class: President’s Day Holiday
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH 3-3c and draft a thesis statement for Essay #2.
During class: Participate in workshop: thesis statements.
Friday Before class: Read WSH Chapters 2, 5, and 3d-h, and draft Essay #2.
During class: Participate in workshop: evidence and structure
WEEK SIX (February 23-27) Effective essays: language, sentences, presentation
Monday Before class: Read WSH Chapter 11 and 18.
During class: Participate in workshop: language
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH Chapter 6.
During class: Participate in workshop: sentences
Friday Before class: Prepare Essay #2 for submission, paying special attention to all workshop topics.
During class: Submit Essay #2 for feedback.
WEEK SEVEN (March 1-5) Reading comprehension: supporting points / specific evidence
Monday Before class: Read GI 107-111, 409 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Making an Outline."
During class: Participate in workshop: outlines
Wednesday Before class: Read WSH 4a.
Read GI 162-165 and complete assignment in "Lesson: Writing a Summary."
During class: Participate in workshop: summaries
Friday Before class: Read WSH 4b.
Read GI 219-224 and GI 302-306 and complete assignments in "Lesson: Writing About Reading" and "Lesson: Using Examples and Quotations from a Reading,"
During class: Participate in workshop: response essays
WEEK EIGHT (March 8-12) timed-essay skills
Monday Before class: Read GI 358-359.
During class: Discuss "Lesson: Writing an In-class Essay" and midterm exam.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare for midterm by reviewing all "Lessons" in GI.
During class: Take Midterm exam.
Friday Before class: Review Essays #1 and #2.
During class: Discuss midterm portfolios and conferences.
WEEK NINE (March 15-19) Portfolio workshops
Monday Before class: Revise Essay #1.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Wednesday Before class: Revise Essay #2.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Friday Before class: Prepare midterm portfolios
During class Submit midterm portfolios.
WEEK TEN (March 22-26) Mid-semester conferences / March 26 : Last possible day to drop class
No classes are scheduled, but failing to attend a conference counts as three absences. Conferences will be held in my office, . Write your scheduled conference time here so you don't forget.
Day: _________________________ Date: ______________________ Time: ________________
Before conference: Use my comments to further revise and edit Essay #1 and #2. Write a one-page cover sheet explaining how your writing has improved since the beginning of the semester and which areas you think still need work.
During conference: We will discuss strengths and weaknesses in your writing and factors that affect improvement such as attendance, participation, completion of assignments, and use of Writing Center.
WEEK ELEVEN (March 29-April 2)
Monday Before class: Read GI 110-136.
During class: Discuss readings.
Wednesday Before class: Read GI 137-160.
During class: Discuss readings and assignment for Essay #3
Friday Before class: Draft Essay #3.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Spring Break
WEEK TWELVE (April 12-16)
Monday Before class: Prepare Essay #3 for submission.
During class: Submit Essay #3 for feedback.
Discuss Essay #4 assignment .
Wednesday Before class: Begin reading "Gender" section (GI 218-300.
During class: Discuss readings.
Friday Before class:
During class: Discuss readings.
WEEK THIRTEEN (April 19-23)
Monday Before class: Draft intro for Essay #4.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Wednesday Before class: Draft Essay #4.
During class: Participate in workshop.
Friday Before class: Prepare Essay #4 for submission.
During class: Submit Essay #4 for feedback.
WEEK FOURTEEN (April 26-30)
Monday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Discuss final portfolio, including final exam.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Participate in workshop: TBA
Friday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Participate in workshop: TBA
WEEK FIFTEEN (May 3-7)
Monday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Complete practice final exam.
Wednesday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Complete course evaluation.
Friday Before class: Prepare final portfolio.
During class: Submit final portfolio.
Final Exam: Wednesday May 12 3PM
Note: As indicated, this is a tentative schedule. I will add readings which will be available on electronic reserve.
I will probably switch around the schedule, and nature of the essay assignments to some degree. The things that won't change are the due dates. If you are absent, you may miss a change I make in the schedule, so be sure and contact a fellow classmate, or email me.
Syllabus Spring 2004
English 102 Section:25
Room BHS 201
Time: 1:30-2:20 P.M. MWF
Instructor: Andrew Hall
Phone: 895-1492
Email: hallawayjoe@hotmail.com
Office: STS-3 (Located north of Arch Bldg. at Dorothy)
Office Hours: Monday 4-5, Wednesday 4-5, Friday 3:30-4:30
Course Announcement: English 102 is a continuation of English 101. It is designed to improve critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. Students learn how to develop argumentative strategies and learn the processes necessary for conducting research, evaluating research materials, citing research sources, and incorporating research in their writing.
Texts and Other Materials:
Writing Arguments: A Rhetoric With Readings 6th edition (Ramage, Bean, and Johnson)
St Martin's Handbook 5th edition (Lumsford)
A notebook with at least 100 sheets of loose-leaf paper
Pen and pencil, stapler, pocket folder.
Email address, Student Computing Account, and register your UNLV Library Card.
Course Theme: In this course we are going to look at popular culture and art. What makes popular culture tick?
What is a passing fad and what will stand the test of time? What is art, and why do we consider the Beatles to be artists? Was Shakespeare looked down upon? Is Rap Music Poetry? Will The Lord Of The Rings film trilogy be lauded 50 years from now? Our papers will reflect this theme, and class discussions will frequently deal with this as well as our in-class-writings.
Class Policies:
Attendance Policies for the English Department are as follows: six absences are allotted for personal, health reasons. Unexcused absenteeism will affect your grade negatively. Tardiness including lateness, leaving early, sleeping in class, and etc, is not tolerated. If you come in after I take attendance, you will be marked tardy, then absent.
two tardies equal an absence. The only exceptions to this are religious holidays (with advance notification) University sanctioned (athletic, band, etc), Documented medical excuses.
Upon the seventh absence, your final course grade will be deducted 10%. Students with ten absences automatically fail the course.
Grade Component (100 %)
Paper 1-10
paper 2-10
paper 3-10
paper 4-20
Midterm Exam-10
Final Exam-10
Participation- 10
Quizzes-10
In-Class-Writing-10
Quizzes and I-C-Ws: Are graded usually as credit or no credit. If you are there and turn in it on time, you get credit. Occasionally a quiz might have a grade also. These quizzes are sometimes pop quizzes, sometimes not. With I-C-Ws, I will never grade other than credit/ no-credit, and you might get paper back with a Check, Check-Plus or Check-Minus indicating my thoughts about the work, but they do not affect your grade. I will only give no credit to papers turned in with inadequate length, or on the wrong subject. Typically, I will ask for 2 pages (1 sheet) front and back, double-spaced.
Participation: You will read papers aloud to class, participate in group-work activities and class discussions.
Occasionally, I will collect group-work assignments. At the end of the semester everyone will give a presentation based on final papers. This will constitute half of the participation grade.
During class readings, everyone should turn in constructive comments about the work being read. This is optional, and is a way of helping your fellow classmates. You will also have a day of group peer review. Two detailed peer reviews by classmates need to be included in the packet. One full page of response is adequate per reviewer (reviewee is responsible for getting detailed response).
Make Up Work: Students with excused absences will be given the opportunity to do make-up work in my office.
Late papers: No late papers accepted. Students with late papers for excused reasons are the only exception. I will negotiate with you in advance if you are absent for an excused reason, or afterwards if excused for medical emergency. All others will be given a zero for that assignment and will still need to turn in the paper in the portfolio.
Advice: print off copies in advance of the due date. Save paper in multiple locations.
Accepted papers must have final copy, rough draft, MLA work cited, MLA in-text citation, and chosen I-C-W attached. If final copy is same as rough draft, will not accept. If length is short, I will not accept.
Paper will get a zero if not accepted. If based on topic not approved of, or on anything other than assigned I-C-W or my criteria, I will not accept.
I-C-W policy
Your formal papers will be based on in-class-writings. I will, when giving the formal assignment, announce which I-C-W you are to expand and turn into a formal paper. If you are absent the day of the I-C-W for any reason, or if you misplace that I-C-W, or if you choose to, I will assign you your topic to base that formal paper on. For those that write on my selected topic, they need not attach an I-C-W to the formal paper.
Portfolio and Optional Revision: At end of semester you will hand in all formal class-work. All 4 formal papers will be included, and your midterm. If you are missing any of the original drafts, you must print a new copy out and attach a letter explaining that you lost the original copy. You will be allowed to choose one of your first three formal papers to revise for an improved grade. You will not be allowed revision credit if you do not attach the original paper that was graded and list of all the changes made to the paper. I will look at the original paper and compare it with the new copy and see if all the changes you have made have improved the grade. Not handing in a portfolio with those first three papers, will result in a failing grade for the course.
Special Accommodations: If you have a documented disability that requires assistance, you will need to go to Disability Services (DS) for coordination in your academic accommodations. DS is located within the Learning Enhancement Services in the Reynolds Student Services Center Room 137. The DS phone is 895-0866 (TDD 895-0652).
Writing Center: One-on-one help with your writing is available free of charge at the Writing Center, located in FDH 240. Appointments may be made in person or by calling 895-3908. When going to an appointment, take a copy of the assignment, your most recent draft, and any feedback you have received from me. Help is also available at satellite locations in the dorms and on-line at http://www.unlv.edu/Colleges/Liberal_Arts/English/Writing_Center/.
Typical Paper Rubric
100 points (10%)
Category Point Scale 0-5:
5: Excellent, flawless
4: Good, a few flaws
3: Satisfactory- several flaws
2: Below satisfactory- many flaws
1: Indicates deficiency- severely flawed
0: Did not do
I will also give .5 gradations when necessary
Categories of grading:
Grammar Level (25)
Conciseness: Get to the point, don't fill space
Sentence structure: variety and clarity
Word Choice: Usage and level of diction
Punctuation: Be aware of the rules
Editing: spelling, etc.
Organization (25)
Thesis: What is this paper about?
Introduction: How did you bring us in to the issue
Conclusion: How did you sum up, or call for action?
Paragraphs: Effective transitions, appropriate length, topic sentences
Unification of Ideas: Cohesion
Content (30)
Argumentation: fairness, effectiveness
Support and elaboration: Prove it!
Quoting: effective attribution
Paraphrasing : Did you do it effectively?
Addressing and meeting the rules of assignment
Use of sources: Are you using proper sources for your paper?
Format (20)
Appropriate point, font, type, and margins
MLA in-text-citation: how proper?
MLA Work-Cited: how proper?
Peer Review: Did you get attach 5 peer responses
*Obviously, your paper will not be graded if you neglect to do the MLA citations.
Types and # of sources and meet minimum length requirements
*Papers 1-3 (2 sources: web sites, or news magazines, or books) Length: 3-5 pages
*Paper 4- (5 sources minimum: at least 1 Scholarly Journal article required, and 1 Book required) Length: 8-10 pages
Assignment and Reading Schedule for 102
On days where I ask you to discuss a chapter, you should have completed reading it.
Additional readings may be assigned.
Week 1 1/21-23
1/21 Introductions, Syllabus, Course Policies
1/23 Additional introductions and Diagnostic Essay
Week 2 1/26-1/30
1/26 Additional Syllabus and Diagnostic Discussion, Discuss Chapter 1, (WA)
1/28 Discuss Chapter 2
1/30 Discuss Chapter 17-Citing sources, (WA)
Week 3 2/2-2/6
2/2 Discuss Chapter 3 (WA)
2/4 Paper 1 Prep
2/6 Paper 1 Prep
Week 4 2/9-2/13
2/9 paper sharing: rough draft mandatory
2/11 peer review: rough draft mandatory
2/13 Paper one due
Week 5 2/18-20
Writing Arguments- Classical Arguments
2/16 NO CLASS
2/18 Discuss Chapter 4,
2/20 Paper 2 Prep
Week 6 2/23-27
2/23 Discuss Chapter 5
2/25 Paper 2 Prep
2/27 Paper 2 Prep
Week 7 3/1-3/5
3/1 Discuss chapters 6
3/3 Paper 2 Prep
3/5 Paper 2 Prep
Week 8 3/8-3/12
3/8 Peer Review, paper sharing: rough draft mandatory
3/10 Mid Term Exam
3/12 Paper 2 Due
Week 9 3/15-3/19
Mandatory Conferences - Meet with me for ten minutes. Failure to show up will result in an absence.
Week 10 3/22- 3/26
3/22 Chapter 7 (WA), Evidence, Ethos, and Pathos
3/24 Prep for Paper 3
3/26 Prep for Paper 3
Week 11 3/29- 4/2
3/29 Chapter 8 and Appendix on Informal Fallacies
3/31 Peer Review and class readings
4/2 Paper due 3 due
Spring Break No Class 4/5-4/9
Week 12 4/12- 4/16
4/12 Discuss Chapter 16 Finding and Evaluating Sources
4/14 Prep for Final Paper
4/16 Prep for Final Paper
Week 13 4/21
4/19 Presentations
4/21 Presentations
4/23 Presentations
Week 14 4/28
4/26 Presentations
4/28 Presentations
4/30 Presentations
Week 15
5/3 Prep for final exam
5/5 Prep for Final Exam
5/7 Prep for Final Exam
Paper and Portfolio due May 7
Finals Week May 10-14th- Final Exam
May 12 1:00 PM in our class room
