You may pose a series of discussion questions about the reading, or write a personal response to discussions we have in class. You may write a brief proposal of your ideas for writing, on days when we expect to write and work on drafts rather than read. As a general benefit for anyone in English 102, you can build your vocabulary by entering the spelling and definitions of 20 new words, culled from a variety of sources, though our text will certainly provide many. It is expected that you know all words you encounter, so look up any that are unfamiliar. A broad vocabulary is fundamental to good writing.
All writers have weak spots.
Use your journal time to do outside work on yours with your handbook or other aids to writing. You may ask me for help with additional materials. These policies, and the assignments, are meant to help you develop your own writing. I can teach you a lot, but when it comes to writing, as with any skill, your progress will depend largely on your commitment and effort at sharpening your reading skills, your vocabulary, your ability to find and formulate questions, and your expressive ability. No one can hand you any of this, and it s not in books, though there s a lot of advice in books.