English 1010 Introduction to Academic Writing Student Handbook Instructor Edition Spring 2007 Editors Brady Edwards Michael Terry Nicole Butler Camille Harris Jacqueline Harris Chelsi Linderman Curtis Newbold Sarah Sisson Laura Vernon English 1010 Staff USU English Department Utah State University Logan, Utah Director of Writing Dr. Kathryn Fitzgerald Ray B. West 204F 797-0235 kfitzgerald@english.usu.edu Assistant Directors of Writing Michael Terry Ray B. West 412 797-2747 mterry@english.usu.edu Brady Edwards Ray B. West 411 797-0266 bedwards@english.usu.edu Assignments Writing improves with practice, so the more you write, the more proficient you will become. You will also improve your writing by reading models of the types of writing that you will complete. Expect intensive reading and writing in this course, and be assured that if you actively engage in these assignments, your writing will improve. Required Texts In addition to this handbook, you must obtain the following textbooks: • The New Century Handbook, 3rd edition, Christine A. Hult and Thomas N. Huckin • Rereading America, 6th edition, Gary Colombo, Robert Cullen, and Bonnie Lisle • Warriors Don’t Cry, Melba Patillo Beals 2 Contents I. Goals and Objectives Philosophy Essays The Citizen Scholar Student-Instructor Expectations 4 6 7 8 II. General Information Writing Center and Computer Lab University Policy and Procedure Grading Grading Scale 9 10 12 13 III. Daily Class Schedule Daily Class Schedule 14 IV. Assignment Descriptions and Components Family Narrative School Board Project Media Analysis Rereading American Images Rereading American Culture Writing Journal 33 36 41 44 45 48 V. Course and Textbook Information Accessing Syllabase Online Classes Your Past as a Writer English Plagiarism Statement Rationale for Textbook Library Resource Guide 49 50 51 52 55 3 Goals and Objectives What You Gain by Taking English 1010 Philosophy English 1010 is a general education requirement that prepares students to meet the University Studies Objectives of the Citizen Scholar. As a preparatory course for university study, English 1010 will teach you processes and techniques to become a proficient writer as you seek to discover and assert ideas in a university setting. In this class you will learn how to develop your ideas; work through multiple drafts; evaluate papers in collaboration with your peers; develop information literacy skills through personal research; and read, think, and write critically by engaging in an ongoing academic discussion. Upon completion of English 1010, you will have developed the following skills: Critical Thinking, Reading, & Writing “A critical thinker cultivates the ability to imagine and value points of view different from her own – then strengthens, refines, enlarges, or reshapes her ideas in light of those perspectives” (Rereading America 2). The purpose of thinking, reading, and writing critically is to “shape, not merely absorb, knowledge” (2). • • • • Group work and peer review sessions. Library research and information literacy development. Reading assignments. Graded essays. Writer-Based Writing Writing is – or should be – for yourself. Writer-based writing allows you to: • Formulate, explore, and express your ideas. • Find and develop your academic voice and style. • Think independently. • Generate ideas. • Analyze your past experiences. • Develop writing fluency. • Practice using writing rituals as learning tools. • Be creative and enjoy writing. Critical thinking is a set of skills and practices that help you better understand your subject. Critical thinkers: • Analyze and judge. • Listen and discuss. • Recognize and respect differences of opinion. • Understand their personal biases. • Improve their understanding of others’ ideas. • Engage in synthesis and praxis. Audience-Based Writing After writing to explore ideas for yourself, the next step is to consciously shape and develop your ideas for a larger audience. Audience-based writing requires you to: • Identify your audience and their needs and biases. • Anticipate your audience’s beliefs or attitudes. • Research and evaluate information based on what you and your audience need to know. • Find, evaluate, and organize information in response to your audience’s needs. Critical readers enter a dialogue with the text. They: • Actively engage with and question the text. • Establish literal meaning. • Evaluate meaning. • Determine analytical meaning. • Compare personal experience with the text. All of the assignments for this course require critical thinking and reading. Your assignments will include: • Free writes and in-class discussions. 4 • • • • • • • Audience-based writing helps you to: Make your writing interesting and understandable. Evaluate trustworthiness of written sources. Respect other points of view. Develop the ability to comment on another’s writing. Recognize problems in your own writing and research and get assistance from peers, your instructor, the Writing Center, and librarians. Practice revision. Use academic English fluently. • Knowing when and where to get assistance in the research process from your instructor, peers, and librarians. Collaboration Skills Research shows that students learn more when they actively utilize the information they’re learning. In group work, you will: • Talk and write about writing. • Respond critically and constructively to others’ writing. • Engage in learning rather than passively sit through a lecture. In order to ensure that your group works well you need to: • Understand and respond to group dynamics. • Develop good communication skills. • Respect other group members and their opinions. • Pause to evaluate the group’s progress and adjust when necessary. • Encourage input from all group members. You will learn audience-based writing through: • Graded essays. • Peer responses. • Reading and responding to model essays. Information Literacy Information literacy is the process of turning information into meaning, understanding, and new ideas. You develop information literacy skills throughout the writing process by: • Asking questions and being curious about your subject. • Determining what you and your audience need to know about your subject for better understanding. • Becoming aware that there are different types of information sources, which serve different purposes. • Evaluating the reliability and claims of sources. • Focusing and refining your questions based on the information discovered and evaluated as part of the critical thinking process. • Developing new understandings based on the information you find and integrating this new understanding into your writing. Part of your group work will include peer reviews, in which you will share your drafts with peers and: • Receive constructive compliments and criticism on your writing. • Practice clear communication skills. • See models of student writing. • Identify and explain writing problems. • Articulate the writing process. You will learn collaboration skills through: • Writing Center consultations. • Instructor conferences. • Group projects. • Peer responses. • In-class group work. • Collaborative presentation. 5 Essays You will apply all the writing skills you learn in this class to a series of essay drafts. Assignments have been carefully constructed to allow you to develop and use critical thinking and reading skills, writer-based and audience-based writing, information literacy, and revision skills. Writing to Explore Academic writing is sometimes perceived as dry and tedious. The purpose of these assignments is to offer a venue for exploring your interests and expressing your creativity and originality. You will: • Consider your unique perspective on various issues. • Develop and write about topics that are important to you. • Develop your writing style and voice. Writing to Inform When writing to inform, you learn to gather information and then focus, organize, and present it clearly to your readers. You will: • Focus your investigation by asking good questions and being curious about your topic. • Use research to shape and organize your ideas. • Become proficient in a topic by consulting outside sources, including reference librarians and your instructor, and by gathering first-hand information. • Write in a readable and engaging style. • Share knowledge with others. • Define key terms. • Give necessary background information by answering a reporter’s “wh” questions (who, what, where, when, why). Writing on the Spot This class will afford you opportunities to free write about readings and assignments. These free writes will facilitate discussion and may help you brainstorm for possible paper topics. In your free writes you will: • Recall the reading assignments and connect them to the current lesson. • Brainstorm possible topics for major assignments. • Demonstrate your knowledge of course material. Writing for Understanding Your writing should demonstrate that you understand many aspects of a topic or situation. In English 1010 you will learn to: • Demonstrate and explore a problem. • Identify various viewpoints. • Be aware of your cultural eye (why you think the way you do). • Develop an informed opinion. • Evaluate the reliability of claims and sources. • Identify and avoid logical fallacies. Writing Under Pressure College courses often ask you to demonstrate what you’ve learned by writing a timed essay. English 1010 will teach you organizational skills and strategies that will help with assignments and essays in other classes throughout your university career. 6 The Citizen Scholar 5. develop a capacity for self-assessment and life-long learning. The goals and objectives of English 1010 help students meet the general education requirements outlined by the University: “The mission of the undergraduate education at Utah State University is to help students develop intellectually, personally, and culturally so that they may serve the people of Utah, the nation, and the world. Utah State prepares citizen-scholars who participate and lead in local, regional, national, and global communities. University Studies is an integral part of every student’s university experience – both in lower-division and upper-division. A solid general education foundation, combined with concentrated study in a major discipline and interdisciplinary studies, provides the breadth and depth of knowledge that qualify Utah State graduates as educated citizens. “By introducing ideas and issues in human thought and experience, general education courses help students achieve the intellectual integration and awareness needed to meet the challenges they will face in their personal, social, and professional lives. University Studies courses emphasize how knowledge is achieved and applied in different domains. Collectively, they provide a foundation and perspective for: 1. understanding the nature, history, and methods of the arts, humanities, and natural and physical sciences; 2. understanding the cultural, historical, and natural contexts that shape the human experience; 3. interpreting the important cultural, socioeconomic, scientific, and technological issues of the diverse global community in which they live. “The University Studies program is intended to help students learn how to learn - not just for the present but also for the future. No individual can master all, or even a small portion, of society’s knowledge, but students can learn the basic patterns used to obtain and organize information so that they can discover or recover knowledge. University Studies involves a series of interrelated educational experiences that stimulate and assist the students to become self-reliant scholars and individuals. The ultimate objective is that general and discipline-specific education complement each other in helping students to: 1. understand processes of acquiring knowledge and information; 2. reason logically, critically, creatively and independently and be able to address problems in a broad context; 3. recognize different ways of thinking, creating, expressing, and communicating in a variety of media; 4. understand diversity in value systems and cultures in an interdependent world; “A university education prepares students to work and live meaningfully in today’s rapidly changing global society. Together, general and discipline-specific education helps students master the essential competencies that make this goal possible. These competencies include: 1. reading, listening, and viewing for comprehension; 2. communicating effectively for various purposes and audiences; 3. understanding and applying mathematics and other quantitative reasoning techniques; 4. using various technologies competently; 5. working effectively both collaboratively and individually.” (Utah State University General Catalog 2005-2006 49) 7 Student-Instructor Expectations Toward a Civil and Productive English Classroom Environment What Students Can Expect from the Instructor Instructors can help create a productive learning environment when they: • Show courtesy and respect for students regardless of their sex, race, religion, age, or sexual orientation. • Offer assistance to students when needed. • Listen attentively when students have the floor. • Listen to suggestions for improving the class. • Arrive on time and prepared. • Inform students of changes in the syllabus. • Work to solve problems if they arise. Student-Instructor Partnership Much of the work instructors and students do will be in class, therefore the student-instructor partnership is central to a positive learning environment. Both the instructor and the student are responsible for maintaining a classroom atmosphere of courtesy and respect. Students and instructors can maintain a productive learning environment by developing positive interpersonal relationships. If at any time the student or teacher feels that the relationship needs improvement, she or he should request an appointment to discuss the perceived problem. The university expects that participation in collaborative class management will contribute to students’ development as citizen-scholars. Behaviors that Promote Success and Quality Work Students who succeed and produce quality work in English 1010 and other university classes: • Read the English 1010 Student Handbook and the instructor’s addendum thoroughly. • Read the assignments carefully, critically, and on time. • Participate in class discussions. • Complete all assignments on time. • Participate in peer review sessions. • Offer collaborative assistance to others. • Come to class on time and with a positive attitude. • Take notes during class discussions. • Write down instructor statements about assignments and homework. What Instructors Can Expect from Students Students are responsible for their own learning and can help create a productive learning environment when they: • Show courtesy and respect to classmates and the instructor regardless of sex, race, religion, age, or sexual orientation. • Ask for assistance when needed. • Listen attentively when another student or the instructor has the floor. • Listen to suggestions for improving the class. • Arrive on time and prepared. • Make note of changes in the syllabus. • Work to solve problems if they arise. 8 General Information The Writing Center and the Computer Lab How can the Writing Center help you? Writing Center tutors are trained to help you improve your writing skills by giving you feedback on your writing assignments. You may go to the Writing Center at any stage of the writing process, from collecting ideas to narrowing your focus to making final revisions. A Writing Center consultation helps you: • Discuss your writing with an objective, trained peer. • Gather ideas for your next stage of writing. • Improve your individual writing process. How do you make an appointment? Sign up for appointments on the Writing Center’s webpage: http://writing.usu.edu. Please be on time for your appointment. If you need to cancel your appointment, please delete your name from the schedule so another student can take your time slot. Writing Center Hours Ray B. West 104 http://writing.usu.edu By appointment: Monday-Friday, 9:30-3:30 Evening also by appointment: Monday-Thursday, 7:00-9:00 pm What happens during a consultation? The Writing Center is not a place for you to drop your paper off for a quick proofread just before it’s due. Rather, you should expect to engage in an interactive session with your consultant. Typically, a tutor will ask you to read your paper aloud and then guide you through the process of analyzing and revising your work. You will make your own notes and revisions on the paper. Bring specific questions and concerns to your session to help make it more worthwhile. Each consulting session lasts for twenty-five to thirty minutes. Ray B. West Computer Lab When you enroll in English 1010, part of your class fee pays for your use of the computer labs in the basement of Ray B. West, rooms 101 and 102. This lab includes access to word processing and graphic design software, as well as e-mail and Internet access. As an English 1010 student, you automatically have an account in this lab and are allowed 200 printouts. The lab assistants can help you access and use your account and any of the features of the labs. Who will be helping you? Writing Center tutors are qualified graduate and undergraduate students from many disciplines. The tutors are: • Friendly, helpful, and smart. • Responders. • Problem-finders. Writing Center tutors are not: • Your teacher. • Editors. • The author of your paper. Computer Lab Hours Ray B. West 101 & 102 Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am-10:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm Sunday: 3:00 pm-10:00 pm 9 University Policy and Procedure English Department and University Policies Regarding Non-Productive Behavior The following behaviors are considered “misconducts” and are violations of University Standards as outlined by The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University (2002), Article V, Section V-3.B: “Obstructing or disrupting instruction, research, administration, meetings, processions, or other University activities including its public service functions on or off campus, or authorized non-University activities on University premises. This includes aiding, abetting, or encouraging another person to engage in such activity” (7). “Wrongfully inflicting physical or mental duress, harm, or abuse upon another person, including but not limited to verbal abuse, threats and intimidation, sexual violence, arson, and murder” (23). If an instructor finds that a student’s behavior obstructs or disrupts classroom instruction or out-of-class conferences, the instructor may: • Give an oral warning. • Request a conference with the student. • Give a written warning. • Request a mediator. • Ask the student to complete a behavior contract. • Refer the student to the Counseling Center. • Ask the student to meet with the University Discipline Officer. • Ask the student to meet with the VicePresident of Student Services. These methods will be used as the instructor sees fit, bearing in mind that the goal during a dispute is quick, fair, and amicable resolution of the difficulty whenever possible. University Standards of Academic Integrity — “The Honor System” Each student has the right and duty to pursue her or his academic experience free of dishonesty. The Honor System is designed to establish the high level of conduct expected and required of all Utah State University students. The Honor Pledge — To enhance the learning environment at Utah State University and to develop student academic integrity, each student agrees to the following Honor Pledge: I pledge, on my honor, to conduct myself with the foremost level of academic integrity. (The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University, Article V, Section 3.A, 2002) A student who lives by the Honor Pledge is a student who does more than not cheat, falsify, or plagiarize. A student who lives by the Honor Pledge: • Espouses academic integrity as an underlying and essential principle of the Utah State University community. • Understands that each act of academic dishonesty devalues every degree that is awarded by this institution. • Is a welcomed and valued member of Utah State University. (From a brochure on the Honor System distributed by the office of Student Services) 10 Plagiarism Plagiarism includes knowingly “representing, by paraphrase or direct quotation, the published or unpublished work of another person as one’s own in any academic exercise or activity without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials” (Code of Policies and Procedures for Students, Article V, Section V-3.A.3). The penalties for plagiarism are severe. They include warning or reprimand, grade adjustment, probation, suspension, expulsion, withholding of transcripts, denial or revocation of degrees, and referral to psychological counseling. Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment is defined by the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as any “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.” If you feel you are a victim of sexual harassment, you may talk to or file a complaint with the Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Office, located in Old Main, Room 161, or call the AA/EEO office at 7971266. Students with Disabilities The Americans with Disabilities Act states: “Reasonable accommodation will be provided for all persons with disabilities in order to ensure equal participation within the program. If a student has a disability that will likely require some accommodation by the instructor, the student must contact the instructor and document the disability through the Disability Resource Center (7972444), preferably during the first week of the course. Any request for special consideration relating to attendance, pedagogy, taking of examinations, etc., must be discussed with and approved by the instructor. In cooperation with the Disability Resource Center, course materials can be provided in alternative format, large print, audio, diskette, or Braille.” Turnitin.com Please be aware that all English instructors have access to www.turnitin.com, a service provided to screen student papers for plagiarism. Problems in English 1010 If you have problems during the semester, please discuss them with your instructor. If you are not satisfied after doing so, contact Dr. Lynn Meeks, Director of Writing, at 797-2723. 11 Grading “Grading is both the responsibility and the prerogative of the instructor of record. . . . The instructor is the ultimate arbiter of grades in his/her course. Changing grades shall be the sole responsibility of the individual instructor, subject to existing procedures of the University Code and administrative procedures for review and due process” (Schedule of Classes Fall 2005 105). Writing Diagnostic You will be asked to compose a diagnostic essay the first week of class. This assignment will help your instructor become familiar with you as a writer and will ensure that you have the skills and strategies to be a successful English 1010 student. Students who struggle with the writing sample will be encouraged to take English 0010 before enrolling again in English 1010. English 0010 provides more in-depth instruction focusing on the fundamentals of standard written English. Withdrawal Policy and “I” Grade Policy “Students are required to complete all courses for which they are registered by the end of the semester. In some cases, a student may be unable to complete all of the coursework because of extenuating circumstances, but not due to poor performance or to retain financial aid. The term ‘extenuating’ circumstances includes: (1) incapacitating illness which prevents a student from attending classes for a minimum period of two weeks, (2) a death in the immediate family, (3) financial responsibilities requiring a student to alter work schedule to secure employment, (4) change in work schedule as required by employer, or (5) other emergencies deemed appropriate by the instructor.” (For further information regarding the University’s policy on incomplete grades, see Utah State University General Catalog 2005-2006 38). University Grading Scale A 100-93% A92-90% B+ 89-87% B 86-83% B82-80% C+ 79-77% C 76-73% C72-70% D 69-60% F Below 60% 12 Grading Scale Assignment Points Due Date Family Narrative 100 January 26 School Board Presentation 100 February 21, 23 and 26 Annotated Bibliography 100 February 21 or 23 Media Analysis 100 March 30 Rereading American Images 50 Ongoing throughout weeks 8-12 Rereading American Culture 100 April 27 Writing Journal 100 Ongoing Attendance and Participation 100 Peer Reviews 100 Student/Instructor Conferences 100 Writing Center TOTAL 50 1000 13 Your Score Daily Class Schedule The following pages outline the Fall 2006 semester. You are expected to be prepared for each class and will be held accountable for daily preparation, which counts toward your overall grade. In addition to assignments and activities listed in this handbook, your instructor may give you quizzes (either online or in-class), miniassignments, free writes, discussion questions, and/or reading assignments. In order to be informed of additional assignments and/or scheduling changes, it is important that you attend class every day. As you begin the semester, keep in mind that the material we will cover contains a range of sometimes highly charged topics. Be aware that your grade will not be based on your opinions in contrast or similarity to those of your instructor or those of the authors whose work we read. However, your grade will be based on your involvement in critically thinking and writing about these topics. Challenge yourself. The texts we read should be looked at as cultural artifacts representing different perspectives, attitudes, and beliefs. Critical examination of the texts and the ideas they present is all that is asked of you. Keep in mind that although you are asked to read and participate, you are not required to agree with or believe what is being explored and examined. For example, if we were reading Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment we would not suggest that you murder two women to pay your tuition. 14 Week 1 Monday, January 8th In Class • Diagnostic essay • Introduction to course and text • Discuss addendum • Classmate introduction activity Homework • Read this handbook and sign and return student information sheets (HB 49-50) • Read Introduction to Rereading America (115) Make an appointment with the Writing Center http://writing.usu.edu Wednesday, January 10th In Class • Bring signed sheets from handbook • Introduction to critical thinking • Discuss Intro to Rereading America Homework • Read chapter 1 of The New Century Handbook (1-15) • Read Roger Jack’s “An Indian Story” (RA 109117) Friday, January 12th In Class • Discuss reading from NCH • Introduce Family Narrative Assignment As you have seen, I am a writer who came of a sheltered life. A sheltered life can be a daring life as well. For all serious daring starts from within. ~ Eudora Welty Homework • Read Gary Soto’s “Looking for Work” (RA 2630) • Read Stephanie Coontz’s “What We Really Miss About the 1950’s” (RA 31-47) 15 The pure and simple truth is rarely pure and never simple. ~Oscar Wilde Week 2 Monday, January 15th NO CLASS – Martin Luther King Jr. Day Wednesday, January 17th In Class • Discuss readings • Group work- discuss narrative elements Homework • Read New Century Handbook chapter 3, “Preparing” (43-65) • Read Judy Root Aulette’s “From Changing American Families” (RA 64-79) • Read Bebe Moore Campbell’s “Envy” (RA 118130) Friday, January 19th In Class • Discuss reading • In class writing • Give examples of Family Narratives Homework • Write first draft of Family Narrative and bring three copies to class 16 Week 3 Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose. Zora Neale Hurston Monday, January 22nd In Class • Peer Review of Family Narrative drafts Homework • Begin revision of Family Narrative draft Wednesday, January 24th In Class • Discuss Drafts/Revision • Writing Process Homework • Complete Final Draft of Family Narrative Assignment Friday, January 26th In Class • Turn in Family Narrative • Introduction to Race and Education in America • Introduction to Warriors Don’t Cry Homework • Read Warriors Don’t Cry by Melba Patillo Beals (pg. xvii-51) 17 Week 4 Monday, January 29th In Class • Discuss Reading • Introduction to School Board Project Homework • Read Warriors (76-145) Use Academic Search Premier to look up journal articles for your group project http://library.usu.edu Wednesday, January 31st In Class • Discuss Reading • In class writing Homework • Read Warriors (162-175 and 188-210) Friday, February 2nd In Class • Discuss reading • Introduction to MLA format and documentation (NCH chapter 13, 306-350) • Annotated bibliographies Homework • Read Warriors (240-312) • Read “C.P. Ellis” by Studs Terkel (RA 591-601) 18 Week 5 Monday, February 5th In Class • Discuss reading • Meet with librarian to form groups and research questions I believe that good questions are more important than answers . . . And every new question is going to disturb someone’s universe. ~Madeleine L’Engle Homework • Read Malcolm X’s “Learning to Read” (RA 243-251) • Read Michael Moore’s “Idiot Nation” (RA 153170) Wednesday, February 7th In Class • Discuss reading • Meet with librarian • Group work Homework • Plan group research • Read “Still Separate, Still Unequal” by Jonathan Kozol (http://www.mindfully.org/Reform/2005/Am erican-Apartheid-Education1sep05.htm) Friday, February 9th In Class • Discuss reading • Group work • Research skills Homework • Plan group presentation • Read Claude M. Steele’s “Thin Ice” (RA 231241) • Read Mike Rose’s “I Just Wanna Be Average” (RA 182-194) 19 Week 6 Monday, February 12th In Class • Discuss reading • Group work • Research skills 1. Find a subject you care about. 2. Do not ramble, though. 3. Keep it simple. 4. Have the guts to cut. 5. Sound like yourself. 6. Say what you mean to say. 7. Pity the readers. ~ Kurt Vonnegut Homework • Plan group presentation • Continue research/develop bibliography • Read New Century Handbook chapter 26, “Oral Presentations” (608-617) Wednesday, February 14th In Class • Group work • Research skills • Discuss Oral Presentation Techniques Homework • Plan group presentation • Continue research/develop bibliography • Complete Outline of Oral Presentation for Instructor Friday, February 16th In Class • Plan Oral Presentation as a group • Hand in Instructor Outline of Presentation • Research skills Homework • Plan group presentation • Continue research/develop bibliography 20 Week 7 Monday, February 19th NO CLASS – President’s Day Every author in some way portrays himself in his works, even if it be against his will. ~Goethe Tuesday, February 20th All Monday Classes Meet on Tuesday • Meet in Class • Discuss questions regarding project • Continue organizing group presentation Homework • Finish Final Draft of Annotated Bibliography Wednesday, February 21st In Class • School Board Project presentations • Turn in annotated bibliographies Homework • Have a good day Friday, February 23rd In Class • School Board Project presentations Homework • Have a good day Make an appointment with the Writing Center http://writing.usu.edu 21 Week 8 Monday, February 26th In Class • School Board Project presentations Homework • Have a good day Wednesday, February 28th In Class • Introduce Media Analysis Assignment Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored. ~Aldous Huxley Homework • Bring a media source to class • Read Benjamin R. Barber’s “The Educated Student” (RA 283-291) • Read Todd Gitlin’s “under the sign of Mickey Mouse & Co.” (RA 782-793) Friday, March 2nd In Class • Discuss Reading • Discuss examples of media • Introduce Rereading American Images Assignment Homework • Read Joan Morgan’s “From Fly Girls to Bitches and Hos” (RA 539-544) 22 Make an appointment with the Writing Center Week 9 www.writingcenter.usu.edu Monday, March 5th In Class • Discuss reading • In class writing Homework • Read Michael A. Messner’s “Center of Attention” (RA 477-487) Wednesday, March 7th In Class • Discuss reading Homework • Respond on Syllabase to instructor posted question(s) about media • Read Joshua Gamson’s “Talking Freaks” (RA 91-108) Friday, March 9th In Class • Discuss Reading • Discuss Analysis Process Homework • Choose the media artifact that you are going to analyze • Read “Virtual Integration” by Leonard Steinhorn and Barbara Diggs-Brown (RA 646660) The philosophers have only interpreted the world, in various ways; the point is to change it. ~Karl Marx 23 Week 10 Monday, March 12th SPRING BREAK – NO CLASS Wednesday, March 14th SPRING BREAK – NO CLASS Make an appointment with the Writing Center http://writing.usu.edu Friday, March 16th SPRING BREAK – NO CLASS I love America more than any other country in this world, and exactly for this reason I insist on the right to criticize her. ~ James Baldwin 24 Week 11 Monday, March 19th In Class • Discuss reading • Discuss Media Analysis Topics Homework • Read Jean Kilbourne’s “Two Ways a Woman Can Get Hurt” (RA 455-474) Wednesday, March 21st In Class • Discuss reading • Explain/Review analyzing strategies for Media Homework • Begin Media Analysis draft We shall not cease from/ exploration/ And at the end of all our exploring/ Will be to arrive where we started/ And know the place for the first time. ~T.S. Eliot Friday, March 23rd In Class • Discuss reading • Writing skills day Homework • Write Media Analysis first draft and bring three copies for peer review 25 Week 12 Monday, March 26th In Class • Peer Review of Media Analysis draft Homework • Begin revision of Media Analysis draft Wednesday, March 28th In Class • Discuss Media Analysis Draft Homework • Finish Media Analysis Final Draft Friday, March 30th In Class • Turn in Media Analysis • Introduction to Rereading American Culture unit Homework • Read “Appearances” by Carmen Vazquez (RA 489-497) • Read “Let America Be America Again” (RA 814-816) 26 Week 13 Monday, April 2nd In Class • Discuss reading Homework • Read Eric Liu’s “Notes of a Native Speaker” (RA 660-673) Wednesday, April 4th In Class • Discuss reading • Discuss American Cultural values Homework • Read Richard Rodriguez’s “The Achievement o Desire” (RA 214-226) Friday, April 6th In Class • Discuss reading Homework • Read Vincent N. Parrillo’s “Causes of Prejudice” (RA 577-590) • Read Jamaica Kincaid’s “Girl” (RA 421-423) 27 Week 14 Monday, April 9th In Class • Discuss reading • Discuss formulating research questions Homework • Research • Read New Century Handbook chapter 7, “Formulating Arguments (136-144) Wednesday, April 11th In Class • Discuss thesis statements • Discuss sample student essays Homework • Read student essay “Cybercensorship” (NCH 145-152) • Read NCH chapter 7, (153-171) Friday, April 13th In Class • Discuss supporting evidence Homework • Research on Rereading American Culture Paper 28 Week 15 Monday, April 16th In Class • Discuss research progress • Discuss writing research papers Homework • Read New Century Handbook chapter 12, “Writing the Research Paper” (265-305) Wednesday, April 18th In Class • Discuss Reading Homework • Read New Century Handbook chapter 11, “Using Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism” (243-264) Friday, April 20th In Class • Review Citation Format Homework • Write first draft of Rereading American Culture Assignment and make three copies for peer review 29 Week 16 Monday April 23rd In Class • Peer Review Homework • Work on Rereading American Culture paper Wednesday April 25th In Class • Discuss Rereading American Culture drafts Homework • Work on Rereading American Culture final draft Friday April 27th In Class • Last Day of Classes • Turn in Rereading American Culture Paper 30 Assignment Descriptions and Components Exercise the writing muscle every day, even if it is only a letter, notes, a title list, a character sketch, a journal entry. Writers are like dancers, like athletes. Without that exercise, the muscles seize up. ~Jane Yolen 31 32 Family Narrative Draft: Monday, January 22 Due: Friday, January 26 Requirements • 2-3 pages typed, double-spaced • Signed permission agreement and scoring standard attached Purpose The purpose of this assignment is to introduce you to the writing process. Some important writing skills you should be developing through this assignment include understanding and using the writing process, choosing effective words to convey meaning, and using correct grammar and punctuation. See The New Century Handbook, chapters 3, 32, 45, and 55. Assignment Description Using the family narratives from Rereading America as examples, write your own narrative essay about an experience with your family. Write a story about a specific day/event/experience using dialogue, action, and sensory details to create a brief snapshot. The following may serve as a starting point for your paper: • A clear and distinct memory you have of your family. Often we don’t realize the significance of the seemingly random things we remember until we write about them. • A turning point, a key event, or an encounter that reveals some aspect of your family and the different dynamics associated with it. • A meaningful event you experienced that impacted the way you see how the family affects your life. Your essay will include a specific scene in your life. Do not attempt to write about your entire childhood or your entire high school experience. Instead, select one scene that can act as a tangible anchor for your essay. Steps for Writing • Identify a story about your family that has specific time constraints and memorable details. • Keep in mind the narrative elements discussed in class (i.e. tension, focus, sensory details, character development, and organization) when you write your story. • Use the narrative essays from Rereading America as models for your writing: “Looking for Work” (pg. 26-31); “An Indian Story” (pg. 109-118); and “Envy” (pg. 118-131). This assignment is worth 100 points. 33 Family Narrative Permission Agreement I give my instructor, ___________________, and the English Department at Utah State University: □ Permission to use my Family Narrative for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may use my name. □ Permission to use my Family Narrative for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may not use my name. □ You may not use my Family Narrative for any purpose other than grading. Signed: _________________________ Date: ___________________________ Name (Printed):_______________________________ 34 Family Narrative Scoring Standard Criteria Completion Meaning Organization Style/Voice Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling Advanced Proficient Acceptable Adequately, Passably Not Acceptable Thoroughly, Effectively Sufficiently, Satisfactorily The paper uses dialogue, action and sensory details to narrate a specific event dealing with the family. The answer to the paper’s “So what?” question is clear and integrated throughout the essay. The paper sufficiently makes use of most of the descriptive and narrative writing techniques. Adequately discusses the family. The writer has made a good start, but the paper’s point may be a little fuzzy or the parts may not support the whole. The paper does not cover one specific event. Not enough description. Only partially deals with the family. The essay follows (or knowingly plays with the structure of) a narrative arc. Smooth transitions and structure support meaning. A consistent voice that is appropriate for the paper’s meaning and engages the reader. The essay has personality. Advanced traditional grammar and mechanics, except when irregularities (like fragments) are used for special effects. Structure may be a bit confusing. Parts may be bland or repetitive, but the reader has little trouble following the flow of ideas. The reader struggles to connect ideas. Paragraphs are not well developed or connected. Paper reads well with developing style and voice. Wordiness, clichés, and/or vagueness sometimes muffle the voice. Tone is inconsistent. No distinguishable voice or forced, unnatural voice. Surface errors are minimal and do not detract from meaning and readability. Frequent grammar, spelling, and/or punctuation errors clutter the paper’s surface. Some sentences may be awkward. Surface problems are so frequent they obscure meaning. Many sentences are poorly structured. The meaning is forced onto the paper, perhaps tacked onto the end like the moral of a fable. Incompletely, Ineffectively The paper does not make use of descriptive and narrative writing techniques. Narrative is not coherent. Does not deal with the family. The paper has no apparent meaning, stated or implied, apart from the description or the narration. There is little attempt to make a critical connection. Paper reads like a freewrite more than a piece of formal writing. Comments School Board Group Project Due: February 21, 23, & 26 Requirements • Research driven problem-solving • Visits to the library • Annotated bibliography in MLA or APA format with at least eight sources per group • Organization plan for presentation (outline, notes, cue cards, etc.) • Signed permission agreement and scoring standard attached • Group presentation (10-12 minutes) • Complete group participation Purpose This project will allow us to think as a class about problems with the U. S. education system. We will develop a class research plan dedicated to solving a specific research problem and analyze our issue from different perspectives. The assignment will help you become familiar with the university’s library resources and with academic research. The presentation will also give you experience working with your peers to collaborate, synthesize ideas, and present orally. It should challenge the class to rethink previous conceptions of education. See The New Century Handbook, chapters 3, 7, 8-10, 13, 26. Assignment Description As we’ve been reading in Warriors Don’t Cry, the Supreme Court ruled in 1954 that statemandated racial segregation in public schools was illegal because it put students of color at an educational disadvantage. In spite of the court’s ruling, though, segregation has persisted. Some major cities in the US never really attempted racial integration, and some cities that achieved a high level of integration have since lapsed into a state of segregation. We’ll take, as our case study, two imaginary high schools (Central High School and Suburban High School) from neighboring communities. Central High is over 70% African American and more than 26% Hispanic, leaving only a handful of students of any other ethnicity. Suburban High, on the other hand, is nearly 75% white. (For the exact numbers, see http://library.usu.edu/instruct/courses/engl1010-schools.php) An increasing number of parents and community members have noticed major inequities in the educational opportunities of students in the two schools. Suburban has substantially higher graduation and college placement rates than does Central, and the citizens of the city want to see Central improve dramatically. The governor of the state has proposed a plan to racially desegregate the schools. Our class project is to decide whether or not to support the governor’s plan. In order to make an informed decision as to the best course of action, we will split into smaller groups, each group researching one aspect of the desegregation issue. Each group will submit its findings and recommended decision in a ten-minute presentation. You will need to take a stand in your presentation, explaining that you either support or oppose integration and why. Each group will turn in an annotated bibliography consisting of at least eight research sources. 36 Steps for Research and Presenting Group Research Plan • • • • • • Meet at the library with your group Develop a research plan in which you identify information needs Talk with a librarian about your research plan Begin researching/finding sources for annotated bibliography Post your research plan on the class Syllabase site Bring a hard copy of your research plan to class Note: Your research plan and research questions should be flexible. Regularly revisit and revise your questions, based on research findings. Personal Research Journal In order to keep track of the sources you find as you conduct your research, keep a research journal. This journal should include all the citation information you’ll need for your annotated bibliography as well as notes on how the sources help you answer your research questions. See The New Century Handbook, chapter 8. Annotated Bibliography Once your group members have found useful sources that help to answer your research questions, you should compile your sources into an annotated bibliography. Each annotation should include the following: • The thesis or main point of the source either quoted or paraphrased. • A description of how that source helped your group answer its research questions. All citations should use MLA or APA format. Each group should have at least eight sources. Group Presentation In order to prepare for the presentation, group members need to discuss how their research sources fit together in either supporting or rejecting the plan to integrate schools. Each group should then decide whether or not they support the plan and why. Determine what information you will present to support your position, create an outline of your presentation, and turn in that outline in advance. Your instructor will provide feedback on your outline. You should then practice so that you can give a polished presentation, and prepare to answer questions from your classmates after you present. Each group presentation should be 10-12 minutes long, and should involve each group member equally. This assignment is worth 200 points. 37 School Board Group Project Permission Agreement I give my instructor, ___________________, and the English Department at Utah State University □ Permission to use my School Board Group Project for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may use my name. □ Permission to use my School Board Group Project for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may not use my name. □ You may not use my School Board Group Project for any purpose other than grading. Signed: _________________________ Date: _____________________________ 38 School Board Group Project Scoring Standard Criteria Visual Aides Delivery and Style Content Organization Research Time Limit Advanced Proficient Acceptable Not Acceptable Thoroughly, Effectively Sufficiently, Satisfactorily Adequately, Passably Engaging, creative, and thought-provoking. Engaging delivery of subject. All group members participate. Relevant, prepared and clear. Effective delivery of subject. All group members participate. Somewhat relevant and not entirely clear. Adequate delivery of subject. Group members may not equally participate. Not relevant or clear. Demonstrates informed exploration of the research problem. Findings directly address the issue and are presented in an engaging way. Presentation has excellent organization that complements research plan. Research problem is explored. Findings presented. Research problem partially explored. Findings only partially relevant. Not enough research has been completed to address the research problem. Findings are not relevant. Presentation has clear organization. Main points are recognizable. Presentation is somewhat disorganized, main points need clarification. Presentation is disorganized. Main points are difficult to recognize. Presentation demonstrates exceptional level of reflection and engagement with sources. Adheres to time limit. Presentation Presentation demonstrates demonstrates reflection some reflection and and engagement with engagement with sources. sources. Presentation demonstrates little or no reflection and engagement with sources. Somewhat adheres to time limit. Greatly exceeds or falls short of the time limit. Does not adhere to time limit. Incompletely, Ineffectively Delivery of subject is confusing. All group members do not participate. Comments Annotated Bibliography--Scoring Standard Criteria Formatted Correctly Complete Annotation Quality of Sources Used Required number of sources Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling Proficient Acceptable Not Acceptable Thoroughly, Effectively Adequately, Passably Follows correct citation format (MLA or APA) as listed in the New Century Handbook (p.311373). Sources are listed alphabetically. Follows annotation requirements as detailed by instructor. Describes the sources' contribution to your project. Attempts to follow correct citation format (MLA or APA) as listed in the New Century Handbook (p.311373) with minimal errors. Does not follow correct citation format or contains frequent errors. Annotation does not meet instructor requirements. It may not be long enough or adequately describe the source. May fail to fully describe the sources' contribution to your project. Most sources are considered academic and are found in peer reviewed journals or books. No annotation included. Annotation is a copy/paste from the article itself or its abstract. All sources are considered academic and are found in peer reviewed journals or books, unless instructor otherwise indicates. Eight or more academic sources are included. If instructor requires certain types of sources (article, book, webpage), requirements are met. Advanced traditional grammar and mechanics, except when irregularities (like fragments) are used for special effects. Incompletely, Ineffectively Most sources are not academic (i.e. Websites ending in .com or .net). Eight sources are included. Instructor requirements may not fully be met. Fewer than eight sources are included. Instructor requirements may not be bet. Frequent grammar, spelling, and/or punctuation errors clutter the paper’s surface. Some sentences may be awkward. Surface problems are so frequent they obscure meaning. Many sentences are poorly structured. Comments Media Analysis Draft: Monday, March 26 Due: Friday, March 30 Requirements • 2-3 pages typed, double-spaced • Signed permission agreement and scoring standard attached • Works Cited page in MLA or APA format (This is to cite the object being analyzed and any other outside sources—though outside sources are not required. See the New Century Handbook for MLA and APA directions.) Purpose The goal of this assignment is to do a close reading or analysis of a film scene, a song (or songs), or some other media artifact. One purpose of this assignment is to become a more aware media user. By analyzing some type of media, you will become more cognizant of the messages being sent by movies, music, Internet sites, etc. You will also further develop your critical thinking skills, use of the writing process, and ability to write effective sentences and paragraphs. See The New Century Handbook, chapters 3, 6, 7, 17, 40, and 41. Assignment Description As we’ve seen in Rereading America, the media can have a major impact on society. For example, Joan Morgan, in “From Fly Girls to Bitches and Hos” (RA 539-540), discusses the implications of hip hop music for African American women, and Jean Kilbourne, in “Two Ways a Woman Can Get Hurt” (RA 455-476), claims that many advertisements hurt women. Steps for Writing • Identify a movie scene, song, TV episode, commercial, or print ad that makes an interesting or important statement to you. What is that statement? • How is this statement made? Through images? Characters’ actions or statements? The rhythm or beat of a song? Are symbols used to convey meaning? • See chapter 17 of The New Century Handbook for ideas on how to interpret and analyze a text. • Use the steps of the writing process to brainstorm, draft, and revise your ideas into a clear, coherent essay. This assignment is worth 100 points. 41 Media Analysis Scoring Standard Criteria Analysis Effectiveness of Content Organization Advanced Proficient Acceptable Sufficiently, Satisfactorily The thesis of the analysis is well-stated and engaging. Paper directly analyzes specific components of the media. Demonstrates energetic engagement with media source(s). Asks excellent questions. Excellent essay organization. Smooth transitions between ideas. Appropriate format. Thesis is clearly stated. Analysis reviews specific components of the media. Thesis is stated but lacks sophistication. Essay lacks strong analysis. Thesis is vague or embedded. Paper does little to analyze media. Demonstrates engagement with media source(s). Asks good questions. Clear organization with acceptable, transitions that could show improvement. Appropriate format. Paper reads well with a developing individual style and voice. Demonstrates some engagement with media source(s). Asks non-specific questions. Organization is unclear. Transitions may be difficult to follow. Adequate format. Wordiness, clichés, and/or vagueness sometimes muffle the voice. Tone is inconsistent. Includes a Works Cited page that lacks academic effort. In-text citations may be missing or inadequate. Surface errors do not alter intended meaning. Some sentences may be awkward. Lacks analysis. Does not actively engage with source(s). Demonstrates little or no curiosity. Little to no organization. Ideas are hard to follow. Inappropriate format. Style and Voice Your own academic voice is evident and makes the paper engaging. Documenting All sources are included in the Works Cited page and correct in-text documentation is used. Partial effort to cite sources in Works Cited page and in-text. Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling Advanced traditional grammar and mechanics, except when irregularities are used for special effects. Surface errors are minimal and do not detract from meaning and readability Adequately, Passably Not Acceptable Thoroughly, Effectively Incompletely, Ineffectively Voice and style are inappropriate for essay. Does not include a Works Cited page. Intext citations are sloppy or lacking. Frequent surface errors detract from the meaning and readability. Essay may not have been proofread. Comments Media Analysis Permission Agreement I give my instructor, ___________________, and the English Department at Utah State University: □ Permission to use my Media Analysis for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may use my name. □ Permission to use my Media Analysis for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may not use my name. □ You may not use my Media Analysis for any purpose other than grading. Signed: _________________________ Date: ______________________________ Name (Printed):____________________________ 43 Rereading American Images Due: Ongoing, Weeks 8-12 Requirements • Five-minute, student-led discussion about an image from Rereading America • Each discussion leader will discuss the questions the image raises in his/her mind and briefly discuss those questions with the class Purpose The purpose of this assignment is to practice your critical thinking skills by looking at photographs and comic strips, forms of media other than written texts. This will help you practice your analytical skills in preparation for your Media Analysis assignment. This discussion will also help you zero in on a topic for your final research paper, Rereading American Culture. Assignment Description Rereading America is full of interesting images, including photographs, paintings, and cartoons. The editors of Rereading America have included these images because of the fascinating stories they tell and questions they raise about American society and culture. For this assignment, you will find an image (a photograph, painting, or cartoon) from Rereading America that catches your attention. What about this image interests you? What does it say about American values and culture? How does the image challenge or question what we think of as “normal” or “accepted”? Each student will sign up for a time to discuss his/her selected image with the class. (Dates will be provided by the instructor.) The discussion leader will briefly share his/her reactions to the image, then ask the class specific questions about how they respond to the image and what questions about American society the image raises in their minds. This assignment is worth 50 points. 44 Rereading American Culture Draft: Monday, April 23 Due: Friday, April 27 Requirements • Problem-based research-driven essay • 3-4 pages, double-spaced • Use MLA or APA format and include a separate Works Cited Page with at least three sources • Signed permission agreement and scoring standard attached Purpose This assignment is intended to help you put together the research and writing skills you have been practicing throughout the semester. Use the writing process to draft a polished essay that has a clear focus or thesis, is well organized and well reasoned, and integrates research sources smoothly. See The New Century Handbook, chapters 3-6 and 11-12. Assignment Description After completing the “Rereading American Images” assignment, you have a solid foundation for completing this assignment. By analyzing an image, you have already started the process of “rereading America,” at least one aspect of it. Now you will need to take that process to a deeper level through research. Use the questions the image has raised in your mind as research questions. What, specifically, does the image say about American culture and values? Investigate that message through research, and write a focused essay informed by that research. Tips • Start your research as soon as you receive your assignment description. • Be sure to make interesting connections and avoid the obvious. • Carefully select and integrate quotes so that your own authorial voice is not obscured. Also be sure to cite the sources whether you are summarizing, paraphrasing, or using a direct quote. • Do your research first, and then decide on your thesis/focus and which of the following modes is appropriate for your essay. Mode Options • Persuasive • Exploratory/analysis • Cause and effect • Personal narrative (must be research-driven) • Blended genre – any combination of these and/or other modes This assignment is worth 100 points. 45 Rereading American Culture Permission Agreement I give my instructor, ___________________, and the English Department at Utah State University □ Permission to use my Rereading American Culture paper for grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may use my name. □ Permission to use my Rereading American Culture paperfor grade calibration purposes and as a model for writing. You may not use my name. □ You may not use my Rereading American Culture paperfor any purpose other than grading. Signed: _________________________ Date: ______________________________ Name (Printed):___________________________ Rereading American Culture Scoring Standard Criteria Essay Focus Effectiveness of Content Organization Style and Voice Use of Sources Documenting Grammar, Punctuation, Spelling Advanced Thoroughly, Effectively Specific research problem is clearly stated. Thesis is engaging and clear. Proficient Sufficiently, Satisfactorily Specific research problem is stated. Thesis is effective. Acceptable Adequately, Passably Research problem is vague, too general, or not clearly defined. Thesis is partially complete. Not Acceptable Incompletely, Ineffectively Research problem is not defined. Thesis is unclear, or there is no thesis. Clearly investigates an aspect of American culture through informed exploration of the research problem. Thesis is well supported. Excellent organization and smooth transitions between ideas. Appropriate format. Your own academic voice is evident and makes the paper engaging. Investigation of culture is mostly clear. Research problem is explored, and thesis is adequately supported. Investigation is somewhat clear. Research problem is not fully explored; thesis only partially supported. Investigation is underdeveloped. Not enough research has been completed to address the research problem. Clear organization with appropriate, easy to follow transitions. Appropriate format. Paper reads well with a developing individual style and voice. Little to no organization. Ideas are hard to follow. Inappropriate format. Quotes and sources are well integrated and flow naturally with the author’s individual style and voice. All sources are included in the Works Cited page and correct in-text documentation is used. Most sources are well integrated and do not disrupt the flow of the essay. Advanced traditional grammar and mechanics. Few editing errors. Surface errors are infrequent and do not detract from meaning and readability. Organization is unclear. Transitions may be difficult to follow. Adequate format. Voice and style are partially academic but contains ordinary and bland language. Lacks individual style and voice. Some sources seem out of place or not completely relevant and sometimes disrupt the flow of the essay. Includes a Works Cited page that lacks academic effort. In-text citations may be missing or inadequate. Surface errors are present. Some sentences may be awkward. May not have been proofread. Partial effort to cite sources in Works Cited page and in-text. 47 Voice and style are inappropriate for essay. Sources are irrelevant and detract from the content. Does not include a Works Cited page. In-text citations are sloppy or lacking. Frequent surface errors detract from meaning and readability. Some sentences are poorly structured. Comments Writing Journal Due: Ongoing I never know what I think about something until I read what I've written on it. ~William Faulkner Occasionally, you will receive a specific writing prompt (to complete either in class or online) that will help you reflect on the previous night’s reading and/or focus your thoughts. These writings are a way for your instructor to see how well you are synthesizing ideas, if you are participating in the activities associated with the class period, and to help you strengthen your skills as a writer. These writing prompts are developed to help you gain confidence and skill with your individual writing style. Also, these prompts are designed to improve your critical thinking abilities and to help you make connections inside and outside of the given topic. Discussion Points Due: Ongoing There is then creative reading as well as creative writing. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson In the introduction to Rereading America the editors state, “Think of active reading as a conversation between you and the text: instead of listening passively as the writer talks, respond to what she says with questions and comments of your own” (10). Active reading is an essential part of this course. As you read, underline passages and write down questions, comments, and reactions. Pick out your best ideas and/or questions regarding the text and either post them online or bring them to class (at the direction of your instructor) as your discussion points. Other Assignments Due: Ongoing Writing and rewriting are a constant search for what it is one is saying. ~ John Updike In addition to the major assignments of this course, your instructor may give you other tasks. Such assignments will likely serve as stepping stones for your longer assignments and for the overall goals of the course – to help you become a more critical thinker, reader, and writer. 48 Accessing Syllabase Online Classes Every section of English 1010 has an online classroom through a website called Syllabase. The following instructions will allow you to access your online classroom through Syllabase. Getting to Syllabase 1. First, make sure that your computer is connected to the Internet. If you are on a campus computer, you are already connected. 2. Open up a browser. You can use Netscape or Internet Explorer. 3. In the address line, type in: http://syllabase.usu.edu/syllabase/. This will take you to the login page for Syllabase online classes. (You may want to bookmark this page.) Logging In To Your Class 1. At the login page, type in your full email address as your username. Example: reginald@cc.usu.edu. 2. Your password is your full A number (student ID), which is a capital A, followed by two zeros and six digits. Your A number appears on your student ID card. Example: A00123456 3. Once you have logged in, click the link for your English 1010 class. Navigating in Your Online Class • You have now reached your English 1010 online class. The links you will need to use for navigation are located at the top of the page. There are several functions under each link. For example, if you wanted to reach the Discussion Forums, you would click the red “Communication Tools” link. • A new group of yellow links will appear beneath the main red links each time you click a red link. Your instructor will tell you which links and functions you will need to know about. 49 Your Past as a Writer Name____________________________________ English 1010 Section ___________ Major____________________________________ Semester and Year _____________ Year in school: (Circle one) senior junior sophomore freshman Please mark the best answer for the following questions: 1. When was the last time you took an English class? a. last year b. 2-3 years ago c. more than 4 years ago d. more than 10 years ago 2. Circle all the types of writing you have done within the past two years: essays, poems, email, journals, stories, work memos, school assignments, research papers (if there are any types of writing not listed here, please write them in below). 3. How many pieces of writing have you done in the last week (including letters, email, assignments, journals, work memos, etc.)? a. 0 b. 1-5 c. 5-10 d. more than 10 4. Circle the types of essays which you are most interested in: investigation, evaluation, personal, descriptive, compare/contrast, analyzing literature, research, observing. 5. Did you take AP English in high school? a. yes 6. How many years of high school English did you take? a. Less than 3 b. 3 c. 4 d. more than 4 7. How many books and/or magazines have you read in the past year? a. 0 b. less than 5 c. 6-10 d. 11-15 8. 9. Did you attend high school: a. in Utah b. outside Utah b. no e. more than 15 c. both in Utah and elsewhere. What is your attitude about writing? a. negative b. somewhat negative c. neutral d. somewhat positive Please provide short answers for the following questions: 1. What have you been praised for or criticized for in the past as a writer? 2. What do you like about writing? 3. What would you like to learn about writing? 4. What intimidates you about writing? 5. What types of books and magazines do you like to read? 50 e. positive English 1010 Plagiarism Statement I understand that plagiarism is an act of academic dishonesty and a violation of University Standards and “The Honor System” as stated in The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University, 2002, Article V, Section V-3.A.3: Plagiarism: representing by paraphrase or direct quotation, the published or unpublished work of another person as one's own in any academic exercise or activity without full and clear acknowledgement. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials. I also understand that the penalties for plagiarism are severe. These penalties include: 1) warning or reprimand 2) probation 3) grade adjustment 4) designation with a course grade indicating an Honor System violation 5) suspension 6) expulsion 7) withholding of transcripts 8) denial or revocation of degrees 9) performance of community service (The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University, 2002, Article VI, Section VI-1. A) I further understand that “[w]henever a student is suspected of an Honor System violation, the accused student shall be notified by the instructor of the violation and its consequences, within seven days of discovery of the violation by the instructor. The instructor may sanction the student as indicated in Section VI-1.A. The incident shall be reported to the department head, the deans in the college where the course is taught and in the college of the student’s declared major, and to the Vice President for Student Services. If the student is a graduate student, the incident shall be reported to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies" (The Code of Policies and Procedure for Students at Utah State University, 2002, Article VI, Section VI-5.A.1). I have read and understand the above, and I affirm that this assignment is my own original work and that any direct quotes, paraphrases, or summaries have been fully attributed. Signed: _________________________ Date: _____________________ 51 Rereading America, Sixth Edition Bibliographic Information: Colombo, Gary, Robert Cullen, and Bonnie Lisle. Rereading America. 6th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2004. Rationale prepared by Megan Inclán and Robb Kunz, Assistant Directors of Writing, English Department, Utah State University. July 8, 2004. Intended Audience Rereading America will be studied by university composition classes (English 1010), mainly consisting of first and second year students. Summary Rereading America is structured around six myths predominant in American culture. These myths or frames of cultural reference help us “understand our place in the world – our place as prescribed by our culture” (Colombo, Cullen, and Lisle 3).These myths include: the myths of the model family, the myths of education and empowerment, the myths of individual opportunity, the myths of gender, the myths of the melting pot, and finally American mythology in a “New World Order.” The readings in each section are “meant to complicate the mental categories that our cultural myths have established for us. [The text’s] intention is not to present a new ‘truth’ to replace the old but to expand the range of ideas [students] bring to all [their] reading and writing in college” (8). Teaching Objectives Overall goals – The overall goals of English 1010 are to provide a challenging and safe environment where students learn to think, read, and write critically; develop skills for audience and writer-based writing; acquire collaboration skills; and write to explore, inform, and understand. Critical reading – Critical and active reading are essential for a text like Rereading America because university level reading should require students to “recognize larger issues, such as the author’s theoretical slant, her goals and methods, her assumptions, and her relationship to other writers and researchers” (10). The textbook and curriculum are designed to present students with varied selections that will require and allow deep, active reading. Critical thinking – Critical thinking is the keystone to learning. Students who acquire astute critical thinking skills will perform better in other academic pursuits. Critical thinking is the vehicle by which students enter into an essential dialogue with the text/idea/author; however, critical thinking and writing is not simply speaking out or criticizing. Real authority comes when you enter into the discipline of an active exchange of opinions and interpretations. Critical thinking, then, is always a matter of dialogue and debate – discovering relationships between apparently unrelated ideas, finding parallels between your own experiences and the ideas you read about, exploring points of agreement and conflict between yourself and other people. (9) Students who spend time thinking critically about these complex issues will have a rewarding semester regardless of the conflict they may initially face. Critical writing – Critical reading and thinking requires time spent in concentrated writing. As students write about what they have read, their writing “will give [them] a deeper understanding of [their] reading. In fact, the more actively [they] 52 ‘process’ or reshape what [they have] read, the better [they will] comprehend and remember it” (11). The text and curriculum require intense and diverse writing. Academic Freedom Plato states in Gorgias that academic freedom “protects the right to develop and explore ideas in an arena free from political, cultural, or organizational intimidation.” (“Academic Freedom vs. Civil Rights: A Special Report of the Center for First Amendment Studies California State University, Long Beach” par. 1). Likewise USU’s “Student Code” protects both the student and the teacher from negative classroom atmospheres. The student has the “right to a learning environment free of harassment or unlawful discrimination” (“Student Code” Section 2). (See the USU “Student Code” for further explanation of academic rights. http://www.usu.edu/stuserv/SCode/). Classrooms are also protected under the 1st Amendment, which guarantees the freedom of expression. The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) states, “All students in public school classrooms have the right to materials and educational experiences that promote open inquiry, critical thinking, diversity in thought and expression, and respect for others. Denial or restriction of this right is an infringement of intellectual freedom” (Introduction for Rationales for Challenged Books). Rereading America adheres to these standards of academic freedom and promotes the above qualities. Problems of Style, Theme, Topic Due to several of the controversial and highly charged topics and themes in Rereading America, it is possible that some students may feel that their academic rights are being infringed upon. However, it is the academic duty of the English 1010 instructors to provide an atmosphere where students feel comfortable disagreeing or coming to terms with new thoughts. Students must know beforehand that their course grades will not be modified according to their personal beliefs. It is stated in the preamble for the “Rights and Freedoms of Students” written by the American Association of University Professors that, “The professor in the classroom and in conference should encourage free discussion, inquiry, and expression. Student performance should be evaluated solely on an academic basis, not on opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards” (“Academic Freedom vs. Civil Rights: A Special Report of the Center for First Amendment Studies California State University, Long Beach.” Appendix #2). In using a text such as Rereading America, it is understood that all instructors comply with academic freedom standards and guidelines. Rereading America, although demanding, will challenge students to critically read, write, and think about contemporary world issues, for truly, Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students, and the general well-being of society. Free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the attainment of these goals. As members of the academic community, students should be encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in a sustained and independent search for truth. (Appendix #2) References “Academic Freedom vs. Civil Rights: A Special Report of the Center for First Amendment Studies California State University, Long Beach.” Prepared by Craig R. Smith, Director. (March 2004) <http://www.csulb.edu/~crsmith/acadfree.html>. 53 Introduction for Rationales for Challenged Books. CD. 1998. Version 1.0 NCTE Stock Number: 38276. Colombo, Gary, Robert Cullen, and Bonnie Lisle. Rereading America. 6th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2004. USU Student Code. Utah State University, Approved May 21, 1999. <http://www.usu.edu/stuserv/SCode/>. 54 Guide to Library Research I. Working with Your Topic A. Selecting a Topic Think about: Is it interesting to you? Is there a manageable amount of information? Topic Focus Too broad = Too much information Example No Child Left Behind Act Too narrow = Not enough information Just right = Manageable amount of information the effects of No Child Left Behind on 3rd grade reading scores in Edith Bowen School in 2003 the impact of high-stakes testing on reading achievement in the United States B. Develop a research plan by asking the following questions: 1. What do I already know about this topic? Example: In my high school, teachers taught to the high-stakes tests rather than what they thought we should know. 2. What do I need to know to understand this topic better? Ask specific questions! Examples: a. What is the history of high-stakes testing? Why and how did they get started? b. Is there any research showing that teachers do “teach to the test?” c. What impact does “teaching to the test” have on effective teaching practices? Or student learning? 55 3. Where will I find the answers to these questions? See the “Selecting the Right Kind of Information Source” section of this Guide. And be sure to ask a librarian! C. Find background information if the topic is new to you. • Reference books, such as specialized encyclopedias, are available on the first floor of the library. Ask a librarian at the Reference Desk for help selecting one. Examples: Encyclopedia of Education; Encyclopedia of Education Research • CQ Researcher, a weekly publication that covers current issues in depth. Available electronically via the library website at: http://library.usu.edu/Retool/Inabs/more.php?Identify=55 D. Brainstorm! List words that describe the concepts in your research questions. Try to think of synonyms, or different words that describe the same thing. Also try to think of different aspects or parts of your topic. Synonyms for the Main Idea • high-stakes testing • standardized testing Aspects/Parts of Your Topic • Sub-concept: “teaching to the test” • Age: elementary versus high school • Geographic: the U.S. versus Europe or Japan Keyword/Concept Brainstorming: 56 II. Select the Right Kind of Information Source Different kinds of information sources are useful depending on your topic and your specific research questions. Books • Good for general background or in-depth coverage of a topic. • Often, they’re not as current as articles. • To find books in the library, use the Library Online Catalog. • For more information on how to search for books on your topic, see the How to Find a Book section of this guide. Articles Scholarly Journal Articles • Good for focused treatments of a topic. Generally, high-quality information based on research and reviewed by experts in the field. • To find scholarly journal articles, you will need to search an article database. These will provide citations (author, title, name of journal, date, and often a summary of the article) and, sometimes the full-text of the article. To see the list of library databases, click the “Article Searching and Databases” link on the library web page. Newspaper and Popular Magazine Articles • Good for current treatment of a topic. These are also good resources for editorials and opinions. These articles are not reviewed by experts. • To find newspaper or magazine articles, click the “Article Searching and Databases” link on the library home page and choose Newspaper Databases. For more information on how to search for articles, see the “How to Find Articles” section of this guide. Web Sites • Web sites can be good for very specific information about people, companies, products, etc. • Keep in mind that you have to take the responsibility to evaluate web sites for quality 57 III. Developing a Search Strategy A. Basic Search Strategies No matter what kind of information source you are looking for (books, articles, web pages), you need to tell the computer how to look for the information you need. Use the terms or keywords that describe your topic. For more on keywords, see the “Working with Your Topic” section of this guide. Search ideas: You can search for groups of keywords by connecting words using and, or, and not, or search for phrases by putting keywords in quotations (example: “high-stakes testing”). To find out how to search for a phrase in a particular database, look for a link to Help. Summary of Basic Search Operators testing AND policy Finds only those records which contain both words anywhere in the record. "high-stakes testing" OR “standardized testing” Finds any records that contain either the phrases "high-stakes testing" OR “standardized testing” -- a broader search result. "high-stakes testing" NOT United States Finds only those records that contain the phrase "highstakes testing" and will not present records containing the words United States-- a more limited search result. "standardized testing" (standardized testing) Finds only those records that contain the phrase exactly as it is typed; does not return records that merely contain the two words 58 B. Choose Your Research Tool and Search Terms You will need to search some type of search engine or database to find books, articles, web sites, government reports, etc. Search terms that work well in one search tool might not work well in another. For a paper on high stakes testing, you will need to use different search terms and strategies to find books versus articles. To Find: Research Search Strategy Tool Try more general terms, because books tend to be written on more general topics Books, government publications Online Catalog Articles Try more specific Journal terms and Databases combinations of terms Examples High-stakes testing OR standardized tests High stakes testing AND student achievement AND math List the search tools that will help you locate information on your topic: List some search terms: 59 IV. How to Find Books From the library home page, click Library Online Catalog A. Select the proper search screen: If you do not have a particular book in mind, click on Basic and do a general keyword search for your topic. If you already know the book you need, click on title or author and enter the title or the author's name (last name, first name). B. Search Tips • • • Try to enter only the main concepts or keywords related to your topic. Try to stick to very specific nouns. (Example: high-stakes testing; test bias) If you do not get any results, your search might be too narrow; you might be entering too many terms. If you get too many results, try to add terms to your search to explore a more specific aspect. If you find a book that looks like it might be useful, look at the record (or description of the book). Look for the "Subject Headings" listed. If these match your research topic, try clicking on the blue hyperlinked subject to find more material on that topic. 60 For more search tips, contact a librarian or go to the “Developing a Search Strategy” section of this guide. C. Locate the Book: Print or write down the following information about the books you find, so you can find them on the shelf: title, location, call number. The call number is especially important because it tells you where the book is shelved. The call number is Location/Collection In some cases, books are stored in the BARN, our automated storage system. To request a book, you will need to click “Request Item” next to the book. You will have to create a user account in the Online Catalog the first time you do this. For instructions, see the “How to Find Articles” section of this guide. 61 V. How to Find Articles A. Select an Article Database Article databases describe individual articles in magazines and scholarly journals. They are organized by topic. • • Click on the “Article Searching and Databases” link from the Library Home Page. Select a broad subject area which relates to your topic from the list below. Read the descriptions of the indexes and select one that you think matches your topic. For example, Social Sciences brings up 30 databases related to the social sciences, including those on anthropology, women’s issues, psychology, criminology and sociology. If you are uncertain and beginning research on a general topic, try one of the databases listed under “Don't Know Where to Begin?” A good general index is EBSCO's Academic Search Premier. Contact a librarian if you need help selecting a database. B. Enter Your Search Terms Don't enter your research question. Instead, enter your keywords or concepts. C. Know Your Limits: How to Narrow a Search • Add additional search terms using AND. You will get a more specific set of material focused on your topic. For example, searching for "high-stakes testing" AND "student achievement" will produce more focused results. 62 63 • Apply other limits, such as Scholarly (Peer-Reviewed) articles only. Scholarly articles are usually reviewed by a group of experts and research-based or scientific in nature. You can also limit by date for the most recent material. D. Capturing the Information You Need: Once you find some articles on your topic, print, email, download/save, or write down the citation information for each pertinent article. Downloading or saving citations on your computer makes creating a bibliography easier. • • • • • • Article title: “Study: High-Stakes Tests Have No Effect on Achievement” Author’s name(s): Ullman, Ellen Source/Journal title: District Administration Volume number: 41 Date of publication: November 2005 Page number(s): 18 How can I connect to the Article Databases from off-campus? All the electronic resources, such as article databases, e-journals, and e-books, are available off-campus through the library’s EZ Proxy with a username and password or through the USU Proxy Server. Click the “Connecting from Off-Campus” link on the library website bsite E. How to Find the Actual Article 1. Check to see if the article is available in full-text, so that you can read the article on the computer. In EBSCO databases, for example, look for the following icons: 64 OR 2. Look for an Article Linker icon near the citation or the summary of the article. Article Linker walks you through the steps of locating the article, either electronically or in print. a. Click the Article Linker button. A new screen will open. b. The citation information (the information you need to locate and cite the article) will appear at the top of the screen. 3. If the article is available online in one of our databases, Step 1 will appear. Check dates Check to see if the dates available include the dates for the article you need. Click “Article” for the database that matches the dates you need. Older articles might only be available in print. Follow the procedures for locating the full-text article in the database you chose. Each database looks and operates somewhat differently. Please contact a librarian if you need further assistance. Note: If the Article option is not available, click “Journal” for the database that matches the dates you need and browse or search for the article. Here are two examples: 65 4. If Step 1 does not appear, proceed to Step Two to locate an article in print. For example, you have found the following information in an article database. After clicking Article Linker, you will see this screen. a. Click By Journal Title to search the library catalog. In this case, the journal title is Childhood Education. b. The title will appear first on the list of results if we print subscription. have a c. Click the journal title to find out which years are the library. The catalog shows we have a print subscription to Childhood Education from 1924-1971 to the present. available in 66 and 2003 Dates owned by the library Shelved in current journals on the 2nd floor d. Click on the Items Available tab (shown above) to get a list of all of the volumes available for this journal. All journals older than one year are stored in our automated storage area, called the BARN. If you do not see a volume listed, it might be shelved in Current Journals on the Second Floor. Scroll down to Volume 80, make sure it is checked in and click Request Item. 67 e. If you have not created a user account for the Online Catalog, click “register as a new Information Portal user” and follow the instructions to set up an account. f. If you have an account, log in. You will see the following screen. To request the journal from the BARN, click the Request button. The journal will be available at the service desk on the 2nd floor of the library approximately 10 minutes after you make your request. 5. If we do not have a print copy of the journal you need, proceed to Step 3 on the Article Linker screen. This link will take you to InterLibrary Services. We can find a library that has the article you need and send it to you as a PDF via email. a. Scroll down to Step 3 in Article Click Request the journal using Interlibrary Loan to open the Interlibrary Loan web page. Linker. b. Click First Time Users or for ILL Service and follow the instructions to request the Log-on article. 68