WRITING
The course is devoted to intensive instruction in academic writing with an emphasis on critical thinking, interpretation, reflection, and argumentation. Through an extensive study of various forms of nonfiction and fiction texts, students discover ways to interact with texts and produce thought reflective, and critical essays. Students will become proficient in writing expository, analytical, and argumentative essays. Formal essays, timed analytical essays, and informal journaling are all requirements of this class.
Students will write a number of essays responding to the following:
- Literary analyses on all major assigned texts
- Persuasive essays
- Expository essays focusing on rhetorical methods
- A Research paper using the standard format for academic research papers and learn to integrate research into an original argumentative paper.
- A paper synthesizing information from a variety of texts
- Throughout the course, students will also engage in ongoing assignments including journals, informal writing, vocabulary lessons, and exam practice. This work, in addition to some tests and quizzes during the various units, will be assigned in addition to the major written assignments and projects.
DISCUSSION
Class discussion is an essential component of this course. Students will each lead a class discussion using prepared questions meant to inspire conversation regarding each assigned reading.
READING
Students should read independent of the classroom. Students can naturally find they love to read and build confidence when they choose their own reading materials. And as a result, independent reading can help improve comprehension, vocabulary and fluency.
