Wade Bradford
Email: profwade@hotmail.com
English 1A (Course #7412)
Tues / Thurs. 7:45 – 9:50pm
Room C257
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course emphasizes the principles and methods of essay writing, with reading and analysis of prose and literature. The primary purpose of this course is to present an acceptable and conventional way to organize expository writing, so that students can convey their ideas clearly, concisely, logically, and persuasively.
English 1A Student Learning Outcomes
After having taken this course at Pasadena City College, you should be able to:
• Write cogent, well-developed arguments that clearly articulate a thesis supported by textual evidence.
• Read critically by summarizing, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating college level texts.
• Select, evaluate, interpret and synthesize sources in the service of an argument.
• Document sources (print, electronic and other) in MLA style.
• Use effective strategies for pre-writing, composing, and revising of essays.
Every student will compose his or her own personal student learning outcomes (PSLOs)
PROCEDURE:
Class time will be used for discussion, analysis, and evaluation of assigned readings and for writing and speaking activities concerning various rhetorical concepts and strategies. Class participation is necessary for student understanding and progress. There will be at least three “major” papers, numerous journal entries, a mid-term exam, and a final exam
Students are expected to have read the assignments BEFORE class discussion of them and to participate in the discussions. Quizzes may be used to determine how actively the students have read the material.
ATTENDANCE:
Regular class attendance assures that students will not miss assignments and will receive assignment instructions firsthand. After three absences, each unexcused absence may cost students up to 2% of their grade. After four unexcused absences, I reserve the right to drop you from the course.
GRADES:
Many students often wonder: “How do I get an A?” In English you’ll find the grading system is quite subjective. Unlike math or science, there isn’t always a right or wrong answer. However, there are some basic requirements to “good writing.” Do your best to incorporate the following:
• Clear, strong, purposeful thesis
• Appropriate support and research
• Logical / persuasive argumentation
• Compelling introduction and conclusion
• Supportive details and specific examples
• Genuine interest or enthusiasm for one’s subject
ASSIGNMENT BREAKDOWN:
Workshops / Participation: 10%
Midterm In-Class Essay: 10%
Final In-Class Essay: 10%
Oral Presentation: 10%
Reader Response Essay: 10%
Argument Essay: 10%
Literature Analysis: 20%
Research Paper: 20%
PLAGIARISM AND CHEATING:
You must not steal the writing of others. Even cutting and pasting a single sentence is an act plagiarism. If you quote from another source, you must give reference to that source; otherwise, you are being highly unethical. Students who are caught plagiarizing (or cheating in some way or another) will be removed from my classroom. The English Department will then be notified and trouble will ensue. In short, think for yourself; write for yourself.
E-MAIL AND LATE HOMEWORK:
If you have any questions or comments, I’d love to hear from you. However, be advised: I do not accept work through email. It’s a big headache. You are responsible for bringing your work to class on time.
If you do not turn your paper in on time, I may still accept it. However, late papers are subject to penalty. I reserve the right to reduce the grade by fifty percent. Therefore, you are highly encouraged to turn your work in on time.
WRITING CENTER:
In order to pass this class, you must be concurrently enrolled in English 900, Writing Center Lab, which requires you to spend one hour each week in the English Department’s Writing Center (located in C341 and 345). The lab is designed to both supplement and complement the work we are doing in the course. Faculty and peer tutors will offer one-on-one and group teaching activities, and the lab also offers computer-assisted tutorial software that will address grammar, mechanics, and general reading and writing skills. You are only allowed two absences from the Writing Center during the course of the term. Note: You must bring your Lancer card, registration slip, and 900 Assignment sheet every time you attend the lab.
The English Division policy states that any student who is not already enrolled in one section of English 900, The Writing Center, by Monday of the fourth week of the semester, will be dropped from English 1A. There will be no exceptions. This means you might need to enroll in a section of the Writing Center that is not convenient for your schedule. At some point you may be able to switch sections.
If you are experiencing difficulty in any aspect of English, please do not hesitate to seek assistance from me or the many resources available on campus. It is an excellent idea to take advantage of the tutors in the writing center during your hour in English 900 every week!
