WR 122 English Composition

Spring 2006 CRN #23015

Syllabus
Instructor: George Knox

E-mail: gknox@pcc.edu
 

 Office: Sylvania CC 221

Office Hours: TBA*
 

 Phone: (503) 977-4475 

FAX: (503) 977-8129
 

Course Description: This course will explore the argument as a means of inquiry and persuasion. Students will be asked to explore ideas through critical reading and develop argumentative essays with appropriate documentation. Activities will include on-line lecture and discussion, in-class and out-of-class writing, exam and formal essay writing. Writing conferences will consist of individual communication via the course e-mail. Other methods of contact may be arranged.

Course Outcomes: To successfully complete this course, students must demonstrate an ability to read critically (recognize effective and ineffective arguments; identify key issues and stakeholders of an argument; analyze supports of an argument) and write effective argumentative essays (develop and support arguments incorporating ideas from other sources; summarize points of view and arguments from other sources; use argument to explore questions of value and action; use proper essay mechanics and citation, specifically MLA style). Students will demonstrate this through on-line discussions and writing multiple essays. For more information, see "How to Pass WR 122".

Texts:

Readings and Assignments: Descriptions and due dates for readings and assignments are listed on the Readings and Assignments handout and on the web site. Additionally, all students are required to participate in on-line discussions.

Grading: Grading will be based on a point system. The maximum number of points available in the course is 200. The following scale will be used to assign the final grade:
 

A = 180+ Points

B = 160-179 Points

C = 140-159 Points

D = 120-139 Points

 Point Distribution:
  • Weekly Writing (50 pts.)
  • Discussions (30 pts.)
  • Paper (50 pts.)
  • Final Essay Exam (70 pts.)

All written assignments should be submitted on or before the due date by e-mail or in person. Late submissions will be penalized.

See the Grading Criteria web page for additional information.

Accommodation: Students needing accommodation should notify the instructor prior to or on the first day of class. Special arrangements will be made as soon as possible.

*Contacting Me: I don't usually keep formal office hours. However, I check my voice mail and e-mail regularly (usually each weekday morning). I do have an office at the Sylvania Campus of PCC and can make appointments for individual conferences. You are also welcome to drop by, but you may want to call first if it is a special trip.
 

Web Resources for English Composition

Copyright 2004, Portland Community College
An Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Institution.

Last Modified: 2006.