This course provides an intensive study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts.  Emphasis is on effective and ethical rhetorical inquiry, including primary and secondary research methods; critical reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts; systematic evaluation, synthesis, and documentation of information sources; and critical thinking about evidence and conclusions.  Prerequisite: ENGL 1301 or equivalent (3:3-0)

IN OTHER WORDS… This course will focus on writing papers (long & short) in which you have to develop an idea and/or support a claim, and these ideas will be supported by using other ideas from sources, like short stories, articles, videos, etc.  You will have to document these sources to avoid plagiarism.  As you write, you will consider your audience and purpose for writing.  Periodically, you will work with others to collaborate, to share ideas, to share sources, and to offer suggestions on how to improve each others’ writing.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:  What will we learn or be able to do when this course is finished?

Content Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of individual and collaborative writing processes.  (implement the writing process)

2. Develop ideas and synthesize primary and secondary sources within academic arguments, including one or more research-based essays.  (blend ideas from various texts to create an original argument)

3. Analyze, interpret, and evaluate a variety of texts for the ethical and logical uses of evidence.  (read & interpret different types of texts & make conclusions using proof from the texts)

4. Write in a style that clearly communicate meaning, builds credibility, and inspires belief or action. (write ideas that make sense)

5. Apply the conventions of style manuals for specific academic disciplines (e.g. APA, CMS, MLA, etc.)