Chabot College
Fall 2007
Replaced Fall 2010
Course Outline for English 13
THE CRAFT OF WRITING - POETRY
Catalog Description:
13 - The Craft of Writing - Poetry
(May be repeated 3 times)
3 units
Practice in writing poetry using materials drawn from published poetry and individual's own work for
analysis and criticism with a focus on techniques of revision. Strongly recommended: Eligibility for
English 1A or 52A. 3 hours.
[Typical contact hours: 52.5]
Prerequisite Skills:
None
Expected Outcomes for Students:
Upon completion of the course the student should be able to:
1. demonstrate skills of writing poetry, including the range of choices available to the poet in both
traditional and modern forms;
2. demonstrate knowledge of the function of tropes, image, metaphor and symbol, and the function of
diction and syntax;
3. demonstrate skill in critical revision as an essential part of the creative process;
4. demonstrate understanding of methods of manuscript submission and the markets for poetry.
Course Content:
1. Anaylsis of selected works of poetry. Necessary vocabulary of criticism a writer must have to
evaluate his/her own work. The works studied should illustrate the range possible in poetry
2. Specific training through controlled assignments to enable the student to master specific elements
and techniques
3. A study of markets for poems and a consideration of editorial requirements. Consideration of
problems of copyright and the method of submitting manuscripts.
Methods of Presentation:
1. Lecture and discussion
2. Instructor's analysis of the student's writing
3. Seminar discussion of the student's writing by the class
Typical Assignments and Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:
1. Typical Assignments
a. Write a poem on an assigned topic and bring copies to class for peer review
b. Give an oral presentation exploring the use of image, metaphor, and symbolism in a poem from our text
2. Methods of Evaluating Student Progress
b. Participation in the evaluation of the works of other members of the class
c. Compilation of a portfolio of original work, including a final project
d. Final exam
Textbook(s) (Typical):
The Discovery of Poetry: A Field Guide to Reading and Writing Poems, by Frances Mayes, Harvest
Books, 1st edition, 2001
The Poet's Companion: A Guide to the Pleasures of Writing Poetry, by Kim Addonizio, Dorianne Laux
W. W. Norton & Company, 1997
A Poetry Handbook, by Mary Oliver, Harvest Books; 1st edition, 1994
Special Student Materials:
None
dk 10/25/06
C:\Curriculum 2006-07