This course is not a part of the core curriculum, nor does it count toward the baccalaureate degree. However, it prepares writers for work toward that degree, emphasizing prewriting, revising, and editing. English 101 provides background and practice in strategies of planning, drafting, revising, and editing. Students begin by writing essays based on their own perceptions and understanding of the world. Through narration, description, and explanation they consider what they know and how they know it.
Research is introduced as a way for students to extend their understanding of a topic.
English 101 emphasizes revision and teaches useful ways to respond to the writing of others. Students usually present portfolios of work spanning the entire semester at the end of the course. English 102 continues the practice of writing effectively through a series of activities that explore a theme or topic such as Popular Culture, Mass Media or The Environment. Students analyze a variety of texts, then evaluate and synthesize the ideas of these texts in writing. English 102 students move from research and reflection to the crafting of coherent arguments.