Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 1
Riverside City College
English 1A: 4 semester units
Instructor Janice Kollitz, Ph.D., Professor Emerita
email: jankollitz@verizon.net
website: jankollitz.com
Fall 2013 Syllabus
Suggested Prerequisite: Pass Placement Test or English 50 with a "C” or better. Students with poor or
marginal writing skills who cannot devote 24-36 hours per week for outside assignments in this class,
and possibly additional time for tutoring, should reconsider attempting English 1A. Students with
physical or learning disabilities should advise instructor of special needs and/or contact "Disabled
Student Services" in AD 121 (222-8060) to receive those support services provided by the college at
no charge to the student.Emphasizing exposition and designed to develop competence in rhetorical
skills, this class requires extensive reading assignments and writing assignments in exposition,
argument, and research.
Texts and other specific requirements (The main text A World of Ideas must be brought to class
every class session):
Hacker, Diana. A Writer’s Reference. 7th ed. Boston: Bedford/ St Martin’s. PRINT
Jacobus, Lee. A World of Ideas. 9th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's. PRINT
Machiavelli, Niccolo. The Prince. Trans. and Ed. Robert Adams. New York: Norton. PRINT
Any good college dictionary.
Lined writing paper (no frizzy edged paper from spiral notebooks allowed)
A supply of 9x12 manila envelopes for submitting assignments.
Bluebooks for midterm and final exam (mandatory).
Pocket stapler and staples for in class essays. You can’t rely on using the college staplers—
sometimes they are empty—all papers must be stapled to be accepted.
Black pen for in-class writing assignments.
Student Learning Outcomes: At the end of the semester, students who pass this class with a grade of
“C” or better will be able to:
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Analyze college-level expository and argumentative texts of intrinsic value and directed
at advanced readers.. Through active reading, students discover problems in what they
read, questions about what they read, and relationships among the things they read. ;
Through active reading, students discover problems in what they read, questions about
what they read, and relationships among the issues and perspectives on the issues about
which they read they read;
Write academic essays of 2500-3000 words, synthesizing multiple patterns of
development that pursue answers to challenging questions or advance substantial
arguments, organize essays effectively so that they posses both unity and coherence,
support claims effectively and correctly to illustrate points, employ the conventions of
cademic English to produce intelligible essays, and almost entirely free from errors in
syntax, grammar, punctuation, diction, and spelling;
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 2
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Write essays in several different genres (exposition, personal, comparison, definition,
cause/effect, and argument);
Write a competent college-level research paper, including gathering sources and
effectively evaluating them, employing a system for managing the research process so it
leads to a thoughtful and intelligible paper, and employ at an advanced level MLA format
that uses parenthetical citations, works cited page, and annotated bibliography, and
demonstrate ability to synthesize material of multiple sources within individual parts of
the paper;
Demonstrate mastery of all stages of writing, especially the use of multiple revisions of
initial drafts, to produce competent essays and critique at an advanced level the
individual’s own work (both thinking and writing, and the work of others).
Attendance: Regular attendance is mandatory. Absence from lectures and writing lab will
impair final grade. If, for some reason, you are not able to attend class, please notify the
instructor. Because this class requires participation, instructor will take roll; instructor may drop
any student missing 6 or more hours of lecture. If you come in late, make certain the roll book is
adjusted the same day. (WARNING: instructor throws tantrums and turns red in the face when
students walk in to the classroom late--beware of flying erasers and then inconspicuously take a
seat. The only legitimate excuses for being late or absent are: having a brain hemorrhage, having
a finger fall off from an advanced case of leprosy, or winning $50 million in the California
lottery and depositing half of the money into the instructor's checking account.)
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The English department sent the following information about Attendance:
WRC location (MLK 119) and hours of operation: The current information will be announced the
first day of class and every student will receive an important information sheet regarding the Fall 2013
WRC rules and hours and any changes made over the summer..
Clear communication of the expectations of the TBA hours (e.g., the hours and instructional activities
count towards a certain percentage or points toward the final grade listed throughout syllabus in
appropriate sections). Clear indication of the instructional activities to be completed during the TBA
hours on a weekly basis will be assigned in class during the first class meeting of the week. The course
instructor will keep records of students’ weekly attendance and activities in the WRC.
In class writing assignments, Reading/Writing Center, and Forum postings: In class writing
assignments will only be accepted during the class period assigned—not later in the day or on another
day; these assignments will be graded “A” or “F.” Each student must make a minimum of 45 forum
postings on jankollitz.com and complete 18 hours in the Reading/Writing Center.
Writing Assignments: Submit all assignments on the due date at the beginning of the class hour; type
all formal writing assignments in MLA format (see sample in writing lab or at jankollitz.com).
Proofread carefully; sloppy papers receive appropriate grades. Instructor has very little tolerance for
typos. Please note: only legible in-class handwriting accepted; the instructor does not read chicken
scratch or Martian scrawl and does not accept incomplete or late work, including any assignments left
in instructor's box on due date. If for some extraordinary reason, instructor accepts late work, the
highest grade possible is 62%. Students must plan their work so that it is always finished early.
Instructor will not allow make-up of missing in-class assignments, including midterm and final.
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 3
Please note that anyone who does not submit this assignment on the due date is is danger of
failing this class. If you do not choose to do the work laid out for you in this syllabus, drop the
class now and give your seat to an anxious student who is willing to do the work required by
the University of California standards. The State of California is out of funds and can no longer
tolerate slackers. Students must earn grades in this class, not because they are “cute,” or “have a
great personality” or “are popular,” or “are cool” or just desire to “pass on these assets” don’t
have a clue about the value of an education. In this class, each person is judged on individual
merit. This instructor does not accept bullies or bribes (I actually have been offered a bribe to
pass a student) or take pity on the lazy. The wait lists for English 1A are long and difficult and
don’t insure success. Please be a winner, not a loser!!!!!!! Submit all work in a timely manner,
even if it is not perfection—this instructor does not expect perfection, but expects diligence and
a desire to obtain the “American Dream” from each individual student. This instructor matchs
help with student effort.
Instructor considers any paper not submitted within first 5 minutes of class on assigned due date
as a late paper.
Revision: Writing is a process of thinking, writing, and revising. Therefore, selected assignments may
be revised for a higher grade--if submitted by revision due date. Original graded assignment must be
submitted with revision. (No revision allowed on research paper --no exceptions).
Plagiarism is not allowed; plagiarism is using the ideas or words of another as one's own. Plagiarism
is academically dishonest and subjects the offending student to a variety of penalties, including a
failing grade for the course. Plagiarism is a serious problem today due to students’ reliance on the
internet. Years ago, instructors found it very simple to identify this crime. Students today download
prewritten essays they find on the internet and substitute them for their own work. This is dishonest;
instructor issues grades of “zero” for plagiarized papers. If you have a note on your transcript that you
have plagiarized, you will never be admitted to a California State College or the University of
California. The policy in this class is to notify the student that their crime has been discovered and just
will receive failing grade. Of course, the instructor has proof of the plagiarized work before issuing a
failing grade. In the past few years I have had blatant examples of these forgeries. Instructor has no
respect for students who “cheat.” Cheaters should not get better grades than students who try their best
and just make errors. You are allowed revisions for your essays #1 through #5 and for your research
paper. So, be fair to yourself and your classmates—don’t try it. Therefore, in essays #1 through #6,
you may not use internet sources for your formal essays—all information must come from the
textbook, A World of Ideas, or handouts or video provided by instructor.. The only exception to this
rule are epages. This issue will be discussed in class. Universities across the country are now adopting
the same rules as the CSU and UC standards. Take this warning seriously. To avoid plagiarism,
students must observe the following:
1. Students must type all assignments in MLA style, and place in an oversized envelope with
the following materials included:
A. all handwritten notes and outlines
B. first drafts
2. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in a grade of "F" for the assignment.
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 4
3. Revisions are optional; however, any student wishing to revise must attach the original
graded essay to receive a new grade; highlight corrections on the fresh revision with
a blue, pink. or green highlighter and submit revision by deadline assigned in class.
YELLOW MARKER NOT ALLOWED, because instructor is partially blind and
cannot see a yellow marker.
Requirements: In addition to in-class writing, instructor assigns a minimum of 2-4 hours outside class
work for each lecture hour--including (but not limited to) writing lab assignments, formal writing
assignments, midterm, final, one group project, and a 3500 word research paper. Some students may
not be prepared for the required work, because they don’t thave the skills needed and should
immediately discuss problems with the instructor. The instructor will advise individuals about RCC
programs to assist students in successfully completing this class.
Grading: Because this class is designed for students working toward advanced degrees, instructor will
use the same standards required by UC and CSU for transfer credit. Instructor will base grades on a
percentage system: A=92+, B=82-91.99, C=72-81.99, D=62-71.99, F=61 and under (no paper
submitted=0). Work receives the following weights:
• 15% participation (writing lab, 45 selected assigned and self web postings, and discussion--a
subjective grade);
• 45% writing assignments;
• 10% research paper, including group project (no late papers either will be accepted for a grade
or allowed to be revised);
• 20% tests (midterm and final); no make-up allowed unless prearranged;
• 10% in-class essays only accepted on due date.
Final Exams: Per college schedule
Please note: a "C" grade is a fine grade, a passing grade. A "C" is the grade most students receive for
the course. Please consult English department guidelines for grading and course requirements. A
student failing the final exam will not receive a final grade higher than a "D."
Reading and Video Assignments:
Students should complete reading assignments on schedule, since we will be discussing the
readings and videos in class during the week following the assignment. Always bring World of
Ideas to class with you as a reference for in-class impromptu essays. Don’t lose this syllabus.
Week 1: August 25
A World of Ideas: 1-133 and 903-end. The Prince: entire text and view film provided
by instructor and be ready to discuss the film in class and write an in-class essay about
the film.
A Writer’s Reference: review grammar, punctuation, and usage. MLA essay
(notitle page), works cited format, annotated bibliography format, and citation format.
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 2: September 2
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 5
"
World of Ideas: 136-244
A Modest Proposal" by Swift (handout)
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 3: September 9
World of Ideas: 246-338
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 4: September 16
World of Ideas: 346-437
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 5: September 23
World of Ideas: 440-570
Student Selected Research Material
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 6: September 30
World of Ideas: 572-682
Student Selected Research Material
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Student Selected Research Material
Week 7: October 7
World of Ideas: 684-789
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Student Selected Research Material
Week 8: October 14
World of Ideas: 792-902
Student Selected Research Material
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 9: October 21
Student Selected Research Material
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 10: October 28
Student Selected Research Material
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 11: November 4
Student Selected Research Material
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 12: November 11
Review DesCartes and Darwin in World of Ideas
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 13: November 18
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Watch online film l
Week 14: November 25
Watch Videos for Final Exam
Preview Final
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 6
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Week 15: December 2
Pick-up graded work and review final exam.
Post 3or 4 web comments per class instructions
Final Exam: Per College Schedule
Writing Assignments: Tentative Schedule
Submit all parts of assignment in a 9x12 manila envelope. Clearly print your name in black marker
on TOP LEFT HAND CORNER--LAST NAME FIRST. Staple each part of the assignment on the
top left hand corner. Back up material should not be stapled to the essay. DO NOT SEAL
ENVELOPE; SIMPLY PUSH FLAP INSIDE. Your audience for all formal writing assignments
are the instructor and other students.
Assignment #1--Exposition (Due Wednesday September 18):
Part 1: Write an exposition paper about the “Constitution of the United States,” “The
Declaration of Independence,” Federalst Paper #10, and “Federalist Paper #51.” Follow
rhetorical model handout provided by instructor (staple this handout to the rear of the paper).
Part 2: Submit "5 Power Figures" and Machiavelli summary.
Assignment #2 Reflection (Due Wednesday October 2):
Part 1: After reading the essay "Self Reliance)," write a reflection essay about some personal
experience that helps you understand Emerson’s essay. Type the 4-1/2 page essay in MLA
format (your paper must be a minimum of 4 + complete pages for a passing grade and have a
Works Cited page as page #6 and the following short essay titled “Writing Analysis” as page 7).
Type a second short essay (350 words) describing your writing process and any problems you
encountered--specifically discuss your invention strategy and MLA format. Attach this second
essay to the back of the first essay, after the works cited. Follow classroom instructions
carefully. Remember the audience for your work consists of classmates, in addition to the
instructor.
Part 2: Submit research paper proposal (typed or handwritten).
Part 3: Submit revision on Assignment #1.
Assignment #3 Comparison (Due Wednesday October 16):
Part 1: Compare the viewpoints expressed in the essays written by Adam Smith, Milton and
Rose Friedman, and Karl Marx (347-385) and present a strong advocacy for one of the two
views (your advocacy does not need to mirror your personal opinion). Type the 4-1/2 page essay
in MLA format (your paper must be a minimum of 4+ complete pages for a passing grade and
have a Works Cited page as page#6 and the following short essay titled “Writing Analysis” as
page 7). Type a second short essay (350 words) describing your writing process and any
problems you encountered--specifically discuss your invention strategy and MLA format. Attach
this second essay to the back of the first essay, after the works cited. Follow classroom
instructions carefully. Remember the audience for your work consists of classmates, in addition
to the instructor. Your thesis should answer the question: What is a better strategy for building
the “American Dream” in 21st century America—Karl Marx’s philosophy of a socialistic
oligarchical state or Adams Smith’s ideas of a free market economy?
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 7
Part 2: Submit thesis statement for research paper.
Part 3: Submit outline for research paper.
Part 4: Submit annotated bibliography for research paper.
Part #5: Submit revision on Assignment #2
Assignment # 4: (Due Wednesday October 30):
Part 1: Assignment # 4: (Due Week of April 8):
Part 1: Define one of the following words: depravity, fairness, identity, morality, or justice . Cite any
essay from the World of Ideas to document your definition. Type the 4-1/2 page essay in MLA format
(your paper must be a minimum of 4+complete pages for a passing grade and have a Works Cited page
as page#5 and the following short essay titled “Writing Analysis” as page 6). Type a second short
essay (350 words) describing your writing process and any problems you encountered–specifically
discuss your invention strategy and MLA format. Attach this second essay to the back of the first
essay, after the works cited. Follow classroom instructions carefully.
Assignment #5 (Due Wednesday November 15):
Part 1: After reading "Letter from Birmingham Jail" and the other essays in the "Government"
and "Justice" sections of World of Ideas, develop an argument to show how Martin Luther King
used the ideas of other great thinkers to help develop his crusade for non-violent civil
disobedience and how he changed American politics forever (cause/effect). Type the 4-1/2 page
essay in MLA format (your paper must be a minimum of 4+ complete pages for a passing grade
and have a Works Cited page as page#6 and the following short essay titled “Witing Analysis”
as page 7). Type a second short essay (350 words) describing your writing process and any
problems you encountered--specifically discuss your invention strategy and MLA format. Attach
this second essay to the back of the first essay, after the works cited. Follow classroom
instructions carefully. Part 2: Submit second draft of research paper at appointment.
Part 3: Submit Revision on Assignment #4.
Assignment #6 (Due Wednesday November 30): Argue for or against the position taken by the
scientists featured in the Documentary Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed after comparing the film
with the ideas expressed by DesCartes and Darwin in A World of Ideas. Quote and cite both Darwin
and DesCartes in your paper following the instructions given in class. Type the 4-1/2 page essay with
customary works cited page and self analysis of your paper as the last page.
Part 2: Submit third (final draft) of research paper.
Prt 3: Submit Revision on Assignment 5.
Research Paper Components Listed Above
Research paper assignment topic: Demonstrate how a particular power figure uses Machiavellian
principles to gain and maintain power or fails to use them and loses power. This paper must be
prepared "MLA Style" per MLA model and Hacker text. No cover sheet for this paper.
Part 1: Due with Assignment #2 on October 2: 5 power figures. Citing your sources, submit 5 short
biographies selected from the following list: Abigail Adams, John Adams, John Quincy Adams, John
Kollitz English 1A Fall 2013 8
Brown, Frederick Douglass, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Hancock, Andrew Jackson,
Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Dolly Madison, James Madison, James Monroe, Thomas Payne,
Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Sojourner Truth, or George Washington. This assignment may be either typed
or handwritten. Late power figure assignments receive a grade of zero.
Part 2: Due with Assignment #2 on October 2: Machiavelli summary. Write a 500-1000 word
summary of The Prince. This summary may be word processed or handwritten. Late summaries
receive a grade of 50%.
Part 3: Due Date to be announced: Group Project. Your group will lead an oral discussion of a
specifically assigned section of The Prince.
Part 4: Due with Assignment #3 on October 16: Proposal. Write a proposal for your research paper,
demonstrating how one of your power figures uses Machiavelli's power principles. This paper must be
typed in MLA format. No revision allowed.
Part 5 Due with Assignment #4 on October 16: One sentence thesis statement and annotated
bibliography. Type a one sentence thesis statement for research paper. Assemble a ten entry annotated
bibliography; include The Prince. This must be typed in MLA format. No revision allowed.
Part 6: Due with Assignment #4 on October 16: Outline and Annotated Bibliography.. Create a
word processed MLA style outline that begins with a well defined thesis statement. No revision
allowed.
Part 7: Due with Assignment #5 on October 30: 1st draft. The draft must be attached to and
conform to check-off sheet. This draft must be typed in MLA format and contain a minimum of 500
words. Emphasis will be placed on development of thesis and integration of sources. All preliminary
notes, and graded portions--5 power figures, Machiavelli summary, outline, and annotated
bibliography--must be part of the packet submitted; failure to produce all parts of the assignment will
result in an "F" grade for "Part 6."
Part 8: 2nd draft due at conference November 25 or 27. The draft receives an objective evaluation
based on how well the student follows instructions; therefore, the draft must be attached to and
conform to check-off sheet. This draft must be typed in MLA format and contain a minimum of 2000
words. All preliminary notes, 5 power figures, Machiavelli summary, outline, annotated bibliography,
and 1st draft must be part of the packet submitted; failure to produce all parts of the assignment will
result in an "F" grade for "Part 7."
Part 9: Due date to be announced in class after the 2nd draft review. See instructions on 2nd draft
check-off sheet. Emphasis will be placed on a subjective evaluation of the paper and may receive a
lower grade than on draft #2.