Course Syllabus

Syllabus

[11894]: [English 101]

[Summer '23] | [5 credits]

Instructor Contact Information

Instructor: Karen Irwin
Email: karen.irwin@cptc.edu
Office Hour: M,W,F 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Quick Links to Syllabus Sections and Policies

Course Details || Learning Outcomes || Textbooks || Technology
Class Participation || Graded Course Work || Late Work
Acceptable Behavior || Classroom Concerns || General Expectations
How to Succeed in This Class || Important Contact & Communication Info
Access and Accommodations || Library || Writing and Tutoring Center || Student Resources
College Closure and Class Cancellation || Academic Dishonesty || Grading

Course Details

Personalized course introduction summarizing course purpose, relevance, and content.

First day of quarter: July 5

Last day of quarter: Sept 1

Catalog Description:

English 101 is a foundational course designed to equip students with essential writing and critical thinking skills necessary for success in college and beyond. Through a variety of reading, writing, and discussion activities, students will develop their abilities to express ideas clearly, think critically, and engage with various types of texts.

The course will focus on building fundamental writing skills, including composing well-structured paragraphs and essays, developing a strong thesis statement, organizing ideas effectively, and using evidence to support arguments. Students will engage in the writing process, from prewriting and drafting to revising and editing, to refine their writing skills and produce polished, coherent, and persuasive essays.

In addition to writing, the course will emphasize critical thinking skills. Students will learn to analyze and evaluate texts from various genres and perspectives, developing their ability to identify logical fallacies, assess credibility, and interpret complex arguments. They will engage in thoughtful discussions and collaborative activities to enhance their critical thinking abilities and expand their understanding of diverse ideas and viewpoints.

Throughout the course, students will explore different rhetorical strategies and writing styles, with an emphasis on audience awareness and effective communication. They will develop their skills in research and information literacy, learning how to locate, evaluate, and integrate credible sources into their writing.

English 101 will also address grammar, punctuation, and language usage to enhance students' proficiency in written communication. Students will learn to apply grammatical rules effectively and edit their work for clarity, coherence, and correctness.

By the end of the course, students will have acquired the necessary skills to produce well-structured, coherent, and persuasive written pieces. They will be able to analyze and interpret various texts critically, engage in informed discussions, and communicate their ideas effectively in academic and real-world contexts.

Contact & Communication Plan

The best way to contact me is through Canvas.

Learning Outcomes

Degree Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the degree, the student will be able to:

Core of Knowledge (COK): Demonstrate a basic knowledge of each written communication as applicable, specific professional/technical content, and program-level content and apply this knowledge to academic endeavors.
Communication (COM): Listen, speak, read, and write effectively to make connections between self and others.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving (CRT): Compare, analyze and evaluate information and ideas to solve problems.
Information & Information Technology (IIT): Locate, evaluate, retrieve and ethically use relevant and current information of appropriate authority for academic or, as applicable, specific professional/ technical applications.
Intercultural Collaboration & Diversity (ICD): Demonstrate successful application of an interdependent, diverse, and multicultural worldview through collaborative engagement.
Responsibility & Ethics (RES): Demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes responsible and ethical behavior toward individuals, the community, and the environment.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

By the end of English 101, students will be able to:

Compose well-structured paragraphs and essays that demonstrate coherence, organization, and a clear thesis statement.
Apply the writing process effectively, including prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing, to produce polished and refined written work.
Use evidence and examples to support arguments and claims, demonstrating an understanding of proper citation and integration of sources.
Analyze and critically evaluate texts from various genres and perspectives, identifying rhetorical strategies, logical fallacies, and bias.
Demonstrate proficiency in research and information literacy skills, including the ability to locate, evaluate, and integrate credible sources into their writing.
Engage in thoughtful discussions and collaborative activities, actively listening to others, articulating their ideas clearly, and respecting diverse viewpoints.
Demonstrate an understanding of grammar, punctuation, and language usage, applying grammatical rules effectively and editing their work for clarity, coherence, and correctness.
Develop audience awareness and adapt their writing style and tone to effectively communicate with different audiences.
Demonstrate critical thinking skills by analyzing complex arguments, interpreting and synthesizing information, and constructing well-reasoned responses.
Reflect on their writing process and progress, identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement, and applying feedback to enhance their writing skills.

Note: These learning outcomes are general and may be tailored or expanded upon by individual institutions or instructors based on specific course goals and objectives.

Textbooks & Supplemental Materials

Instructor to provide materials and hyperlinks.

Technology

Access to a computer. All work must be typed.

Class Participation

This course is designed to work around the individual student's schedule. Instructor does require a quick weekly check-in with each student. (See Monday Motivation in assignments.)

Graded Coursework

All work will be graded.

(See below for criteria.)

Late Work

Life happens. If you need more time for an assignment, just let me know. No questions asked. The only assignments that expire are weekly check-ins.

Acceptable Behavior

Even in an online setting, it is expected that you will conduct yourself in a respectful manner. Balancing your time as a student with the rest of your life (work, family, etc.), can be very trying. It is easy to get frustrated, especially in an online environment, but I want to emphasize the importance of respecting diversity and being pro-active and responsible for yourself, your words, and your actions. My primary goal is to support you as you take responsibility for your education, so please communicate and do so with kindness. The general idea of "treat others the way you want to be treated" along with our outlined code of conduct, is something I take very seriously and will be very explicit about throughout the quarter.

Classroom Concerns

Dispute procedure

General Expectations

I expect you to…

communicate with me if you have questions or concerns.

You can expect me to…

Read every word you write and provide feedback.

How to Succeed In This Class

To succeed in English 101, consider the following strategies:

Actively participate: Even in an online course, regular attendance is crucial for staying engaged and understanding the material. Actively participate in class discussions, ask questions, and seek clarification when needed.
Stay organized and manage your time effectively: Create a schedule or study plan to ensure you allocate enough time for reading, writing assignments, and studying. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Read actively and critically: Engage with assigned readings by taking notes, highlighting key points, and asking questions. Practice analyzing and interpreting texts, identifying main ideas, supporting evidence, and underlying themes.
Develop strong writing skills: Take advantage of the writing process, which includes prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. Start early on assignments to allow for multiple drafts and revisions. Seek feedback from your instructor or writing center to improve your writing.
Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance if you're struggling with a concept or assignment. Your instructor, teaching assistants, or classmates can provide guidance and support. Utilize resources such as writing centers or tutoring services that may be available to you.
Engage with feedback: When you receive feedback on your assignments, take the time to understand it and apply it to future work. Address any areas for improvement and use feedback as a learning opportunity.
Develop good study habits: Find a study environment that suits you, whether it's a quiet space or a coffee shop. Break down your study sessions into focused intervals with breaks in between. Use various study techniques like summarizing, creating flashcards, or discussing concepts with classmates.
Collaborate with peers: Engage in group discussions, peer review sessions, or study groups. Collaborating with classmates can offer different perspectives and help you deepen your understanding of the material.
Practice critical thinking: English 101 often involves analyzing and evaluating information. Develop your critical thinking skills by questioning assumptions, considering different viewpoints, and supporting your arguments with evidence.
Take advantage of resources: Familiarize yourself with the resources available to you, such as online databases, library resources, (CPTC has a great Learning Center) writing guides, and academic support services. These resources can enhance your learning experience and help you succeed.

Remember, success in English 101 is not just about earning high grades but also about improving your communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and understanding of literature and writing. Engage actively, seek help when needed, and embrace the learning process.

Access and Accommodations

Your access in the learning environment is important to me. If you have already established disability accommodations with the Access Services office, please communicate your approved accommodations to me at your earliest convenience so we can discuss your needs in this course. You can request that Access Services email your Letter of Accommodation to me, or you can provide me with printed copies.

If you have a disability or health condition that may benefit from accommodations to ensure access and support success in this course—and have not yet established services, please contact Access Services at (253) 460-4437 or access@tacomacc.edu.

Access Services offers resources and coordinates reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities and/or temporary health conditions. Services are established through an interactive process that begins with an intake appointment. Access Services is located in Building 7.

Library

CPTC's Library offers access to a range of research materials including books, e-books, DVDs/CDs, and subscription databases that carry thousands of publications covering a wide range of disciplines. The faculty librarians offer research support for all students, of all levels of research experience.

Writing and Tutoring Center

Student Resources

College Closure and Class Cancellation

Should the CPTC campus close for weather or other extenuating circumstance, you should not come to campus. Generally the expectation is that you will turn in work the next time your classes meet. (However, you are still expected to turn in work on time for this class online!) If any face-to-face class is cancelled, an email is sent if time allows, and a note is posted on the classroom door. Information about school closures, partial or total, will be available at 253-566-5000 (a recorded message will give the caller up-to-date information on closures) or on the TCC home page by 6:15 a.m. www.tacomacc.edu (a message will be placed there only if the college will be closed).

Academic Dishonesty

It is the official policy of CPTC that cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, and other forms of academic misconduct are grounds for disciplinary action under the Code of Students Rights and Responsibilities. The student accused of academic dishonesty may be reported to the Associate Vice President of Students Services for initiation of disciplinary proceedings which could result in disciplinary sanctions ranging from a warning to expulsion from the College.

Forms of plagiarism will be dealt with initially as an opportunity for individual or group instruction as appropriate. Continued or deliberate plagiarism may result in a 0 (zero) score given to that work.

Work that is a clear product of cheating, such as using AI or Chatgpt, copying from a fellow student, will be given a 0 (zero) score. Deliberate, repeated plagiarism and cheating will result in a referral to Student Services.

Grading

Criteria: Excellent 90-100 Good 80-89 Fair 70-79 Needs Improvement <69

Thesis Statement: Clear and well-developed thesis statement that presents a strong argument and effectively guides the essay.
Organization: Logical and coherent structure with well-defined paragraphs and smooth transitions between ideas.
Content and Analysis: Thorough analysis and interpretation of the topic or text, demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter. Provides relevant and insightful evidence to support arguments.
Writing Style and Clarity: Demonstrates a strong command of language and grammar. Writing is clear, concise, and engaging, with a suitable tone and appropriate vocabulary.
Use of Evidence: Skillful integration of relevant and credible evidence to support arguments and strengthen the essay's claims. Proper citation and referencing where necessary.
Critical Thinking: Demonstrates strong critical thinking skills by analyzing information, evaluating different perspectives, and presenting a well-reasoned argument.
Use of Sources: Effective use of outside sources, where applicable, to enhance the essay's credibility and provide additional support or context. Proper citation and referencing following a specific style guide (e.g., APA, MLA).
Conventions and Mechanics: Adherence to standard conventions of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure. Consistent and accurate use of academic writing conventions.
Conclusion: Strong concluding paragraph that effectively summarizes key points and leaves a lasting impression.
Overall Impact: The essay demonstrates a high level of thoughtfulness, engagement, and originality. It presents a compelling argument and leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

Course Calendar

You will see a course calendar below this syllabus window. It changes as I make changes to the Modules; however, I go by what is published in the Modules, so please use the Modules as your course calendar. Check Announcements each time you log in to see any messages about our calendar or other items.