DeAja Packer
Weekly Writing Assignment 2.16
The topic of my paper will be about the future of optometry. All aspects of the profession will be covered. I found it hard to focus on only one topic because of limited sources. The main points in my paper will be about the raise of women, the new technology discovered, and the different cures and treatments for eye diseases. I think this topic will be very beneficial to me because it will give me the knowledge of knowing where optometry is going by the time I enter the field.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
I had a hard time remembering my password to blogger, but here is my proposal a little late....
After reviewing the requirements for our next assignment, the long analytical report, I am tentatively planning on doing a comparative analysis. I actually really like the example of where to relocate after graduation. I would like to look into either California or Nevada for sure, and possibly some other locations as well.
The areas that I will compare to decide will be cost of living, weather, and job availability. I want to consider job pay, if the location is a tourist area, if it is good for raising children and a family. I want to know the threats of the land, the problems with its economy, and the cost of taxes. I will need to research what there is to consider when living somewhere.
I want to consider where my boyfriend wants to relocate as well. He is going into professional golf management and will do better in his career in a warm, sunny place where golf can be played year round and he can do well.
I also want to consider where my parents want to retire. They will need to be my children’s babysitter. And I love my mommy.
After reviewing the requirements for our next assignment, the long analytical report, I am tentatively planning on doing a comparative analysis. I actually really like the example of where to relocate after graduation. I would like to look into either California or Nevada for sure, and possibly some other locations as well.
The areas that I will compare to decide will be cost of living, weather, and job availability. I want to consider job pay, if the location is a tourist area, if it is good for raising children and a family. I want to know the threats of the land, the problems with its economy, and the cost of taxes. I will need to research what there is to consider when living somewhere.
I want to consider where my boyfriend wants to relocate as well. He is going into professional golf management and will do better in his career in a warm, sunny place where golf can be played year round and he can do well.
I also want to consider where my parents want to retire. They will need to be my children’s babysitter. And I love my mommy.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Proposal
I propose to give a report on the importance of play in early childhood education. What is the cause of play bing an important part of learning in early childhood education? Not sure if it's correct to word it like this or not. I need some help with this. Nonetheless, so often there are parents who feel like play is not an important part of their child's learning. I would like to research this and give evidence as why this is important and how it really helps the child.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Sex Offenders
I want to do my paper on sex offenders and new different options that we could do for their punishment. The sex offenders registers list is a newer addition to how we handle sex offenders, but just like any new thing it has a lot of good things about it as well as the bad. I want to look into new ways that we can handle our sex offenders, different programs, rehabilitation, actions, etc. I want to find out about these new ways and ideas and look into which one would be the most realistic as well as beneficial that would work for the system, the offender, as well as have society's approval. The reason I want to do my paper on this is because I am a Criminal Justice major and will be graduating soon and looking for a job in the fall. Sex offenders are a big part of the system and until I can follow my dream of being in the FBI I want to work in child exploitation or something along those lines. I will be working with these kinds of offenders and I want to know all the information about this that is out there and be knowledgeable about the changes that may be taking place when I am entering the field.
Proposal
For my paper I would like to look at long distant relationship. I'm choosing this topic because I have never been in a long distance relationship and in a few months my fiance and I will be apart. I want to study whether or not long distance relationships are healthy and if they are doable. There are tons of rumors about them not lasting because you don't spend as much time together and so on. I know people who have been in long distance relationships and they never seem to be together for that long after the move. Why? I don't know but I hope to get imformation about it.
I hope this topic is going to get me good information if not them I will have to change to something different.
I hope this topic is going to get me good information if not them I will have to change to something different.
Feasability of Graduating with My BSN in Spring 2010
Proposed Analytic Report
Anne Hendricks
Ferris State University
Professor J. Thomas
2/22/2009
I would like to look at the feasability of my graduating with my BSN in Spring 2010. My credit load with tentative schedule for completion in Spring 2010, work load and family commitments will be presented. Pros and cons of attaining my BSN will be looked at including five and ten year goals. Financial considerations will be looked at including cost of completing on time, reimbursement options through work, change in work schedule to complete on time and overall change in income including benefit changes.
The reason that I would like to look at this topic, is because I am struggling with work, school, and family balance and I am wondering if it is all worth it. I really need to consider my motivations for obtaining my BSN and the overall costs to my personal/ professional life, and the benefits to my personal/professional life.
I think that by performing this assignment I will work through the process on paper and truly analyze this from all angles honestly. By putting this into a report, I feel that I will be more objective versus emotional. Hopefully it will help other readers to see the process on paper as well.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Proposal
Tiana D. Haynes
Proposal Long Analytical
English 321
Mr. Thomas
Proposal Long Analytical
English 321
Mr. Thomas
Inter-Racial Love
What is the main cause of conflict for inter-racial marriages? I am interested in the subject because I am entering an inter-racial marriage in a few months. I have seen marriages fail from the challenges that arise between same race couples. I am very aware that couples have conflicts over finances, sex, child rearing, and even religion. Although, these couples share the same culture background their marriages have ended in divorce. In addition to these challenges, I have often heard that inter-racial marriages experience unique conflicts in addition to the common conflicts in same race marriages. Although I am not afraid to experience or face these challenges I would like to be aware of them prior to being confronted with them. I believe this would cause me to be better equipped to address the situations when they arise. I expect this research will allow me to discover challenges I did not consider.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Some clarifications . . .
Thanks for the introductions. I believe I sent this to you all as part of your submission, but I wanted to post it here again for further clarification on what the blog will be going forward.
Clarification on the blog:
We will not post assns. on the blog every week, instead the assns for the blog will come as they do. they will be appropriately labeled as such. however, that doesn't mean that the blog won't be useful in the down weeks as well. it is just another forum that we can use to post interesting/intriguing/helpful links or posts or ideas. for instance, i will begin posting copies of our larger assns. (starting with next week's lit review) to the blog so that you may read them for clarification purposes if you are away from FerrisConnect). you may also post info here as you feel the need. many of you are in the same field or studying similar things and this can be a place for that sort of pertinent info as well. of course you will only be required to post here when i assign it, but i want you to know that as an author it is available to you in any way you see fit.
--Jamie
Clarification on the blog:
We will not post assns. on the blog every week, instead the assns for the blog will come as they do. they will be appropriately labeled as such. however, that doesn't mean that the blog won't be useful in the down weeks as well. it is just another forum that we can use to post interesting/intriguing/helpful links or posts or ideas. for instance, i will begin posting copies of our larger assns. (starting with next week's lit review) to the blog so that you may read them for clarification purposes if you are away from FerrisConnect). you may also post info here as you feel the need. many of you are in the same field or studying similar things and this can be a place for that sort of pertinent info as well. of course you will only be required to post here when i assign it, but i want you to know that as an author it is available to you in any way you see fit.
--Jamie
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
INTRO
Hello everyone,
I am so sorry that my post is late but I am Jason Robinson and I am senior. My major here at this wonderful university is Health care systems admin. and upon passing of these final classes this will be my last few months here in Big Rapids. I am from Detroit MI and some of my hobbies include chess, basketball, and long walks on the beach. Finally I plan on improving my writing in this class, I have not take enlglish since my freshman year so it will be a good refresher.
I am so sorry that my post is late but I am Jason Robinson and I am senior. My major here at this wonderful university is Health care systems admin. and upon passing of these final classes this will be my last few months here in Big Rapids. I am from Detroit MI and some of my hobbies include chess, basketball, and long walks on the beach. Finally I plan on improving my writing in this class, I have not take enlglish since my freshman year so it will be a good refresher.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Tiana D. Haynes Introduction Blog
Hello, my name is Tiana D. Haynes. I am a 32 year teacher by day and a cosmetologist veteran on weekends. I enjoy helping people accomplish their goals as well as, making people looking beautiful. For the last five years, I had the privileged of working at a CTE school teaching my vocation (Cosmetology). I teach 12 graders from 32 different districts in the Genesee County area. Because I am vocational certified I am qualified to teach at the technology school. But it is also a public high school so I have to get my bachleor's and teaching certification. The district allows teacher not certified, seven year's to attain thier certification. I have 4 more semester left and I'll be finished. I also want my MBA, I am going to open my own business, custom desiginning wigs for clients who have alopecia and cancer.
I'm in this class because I need it to graduate. I hope to learn how to enhance my writing skills and and more technology savy.
I'm in this class because I need it to graduate. I hope to learn how to enhance my writing skills and and more technology savy.
My name is Ann Nelson. I'm 19 years old and this is my second year of college. I want to pursue a degree in nursing and hope to be in the program next fall. On top of all the classes, I am also working at a nursing/rehabilitation home in Big Rapids where I have gained a lot experience. I have taken online courses before and even though this class is required for me I am looking forward to putting the skills I have learned in my previous english classes to use.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Hello...My name is Khalia. I'm 21years old and this is my last year at Ferris State. My major is social work. I am taking this class because it is a requirement for my major. I love to write on my free time so I am looking foward to this class. This is my first online class and I am kind of nervous about it. Hopefully I do well. When I'm done with school I hope to become a counselor in a high school. I love working with people so my plan is to help our youth the best way that I can.
Nice meeting you all...
Khalia
Nice meeting you all...
Khalia
Intro
Hey guys, I'm Tracy.
I have another year and a half here to finish studying forensic biology and anthropology. I am taking this course because it is required. I hope to use this class to strengthen my communication skills.
I have another year and a half here to finish studying forensic biology and anthropology. I am taking this course because it is required. I hope to use this class to strengthen my communication skills.
Friday, January 16, 2009
introduction
My name is scott ghrist, I am on my last semester at ferris state in the criminal justice program. My sole reason for taking this class is that is a degree requirement, so the only real thing I hope to get out of this class is a passing grade. Professionally, my interests lean more to the history oriented, I have no real desire to do anything law enforcement related.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Introduction
Hello Everyone
My name is DeAja Packer. I am a 20 year-old junior here at Ferris. I am currently in the pre-optometry program. I hope to apply to Optometry school within the next year or so. I am taking English 321 as a requirement for my program. I am very excited about this course and its setup.
This is my first online course. I have never used blogger before this course; however I have heard great things about it and plan to continue to use it., I look forward to to getting a better understanding of some different writing skills and to enhance my current knowledge of the subject.
My professional interests are to obtaining my bachelors in biology then my doctorates in vision science. I intend to work for a private firm for 10 years then open my own optical clinic. I have many goals I would like to accomplish and my life has only begun.
DeAja
My name is DeAja Packer. I am a 20 year-old junior here at Ferris. I am currently in the pre-optometry program. I hope to apply to Optometry school within the next year or so. I am taking English 321 as a requirement for my program. I am very excited about this course and its setup.
This is my first online course. I have never used blogger before this course; however I have heard great things about it and plan to continue to use it., I look forward to to getting a better understanding of some different writing skills and to enhance my current knowledge of the subject.
My professional interests are to obtaining my bachelors in biology then my doctorates in vision science. I intend to work for a private firm for 10 years then open my own optical clinic. I have many goals I would like to accomplish and my life has only begun.
DeAja
All About Me
I'm Amanda and i'm 21 years old. I'm in my fourth year of schooling to become a teacher. I would like to teach Mathematics and Physics. For my first year of school I went to SVSU, I then transferred to NCMC in Petoskey and then to NMC in Traverse City. I am now taking online courses through FSU. I live in Gaylord, MI so at times it can be difficult to drive to school especially when the courses are mostly two days a week.
I've taken online courses before, however, this is my first english online course. I'm excited because the layout of the class seems more like a claborative class than i'm sitting at my computer not really thinking about what other people are saying.
I work at a local law firm, where I have been for five years now. I've been here since I was in high school and i've worked my way up the totem pole.
Which basically sums everything up . . . I work full time and go to school part time. It can get hectic!
I've taken online courses before, however, this is my first english online course. I'm excited because the layout of the class seems more like a claborative class than i'm sitting at my computer not really thinking about what other people are saying.
I work at a local law firm, where I have been for five years now. I've been here since I was in high school and i've worked my way up the totem pole.
Which basically sums everything up . . . I work full time and go to school part time. It can get hectic!
Leah- Intro Blog
My name is Leah, I am 20 years old, and going for Nursing. I turned in my application today so... CROSS YOUR FINGERS for me! Currently I work at Chemical Bank as a teller.
I am required to take this class as part of my degrees curriculum and this is my last English class I need to take. This is my first English class on line, but not my first online class. This will be different though, using both blogger and ferris connect. I choose to take this English class online because I found that the in a classroom English classes were very short and most of the work was done at home anyway. So, this is convenient. I am looking foward to learning even more writing styles and techniques that can help further my ability to communicate.
My interests are god, family, friends, my boy toy, scrapbooking, visiting the puppy store everytime I go home, and if I have time in between working, school and homework, I enjoy relaxing. Usually I will watch the Animal Planet.
My professional interests are to aqquire my RN degree and move somewhere sunny and warm to settle with my lover and live happily ever after. I am not sure which field of nursing I want to work towards, but I am interested in working with moms and babies, and women in general. I have learned to be very patient with my future and take life day by day and see how my story unfolds.
I am required to take this class as part of my degrees curriculum and this is my last English class I need to take. This is my first English class on line, but not my first online class. This will be different though, using both blogger and ferris connect. I choose to take this English class online because I found that the in a classroom English classes were very short and most of the work was done at home anyway. So, this is convenient. I am looking foward to learning even more writing styles and techniques that can help further my ability to communicate.
My interests are god, family, friends, my boy toy, scrapbooking, visiting the puppy store everytime I go home, and if I have time in between working, school and homework, I enjoy relaxing. Usually I will watch the Animal Planet.
My professional interests are to aqquire my RN degree and move somewhere sunny and warm to settle with my lover and live happily ever after. I am not sure which field of nursing I want to work towards, but I am interested in working with moms and babies, and women in general. I have learned to be very patient with my future and take life day by day and see how my story unfolds.
Introduction
Hello,
My name is Shirica Gulledge and I am a non-traditional student. My husband and I have 3 children. I am taking this class because it is one of the required classes toward my degree. I hope to become a better writer after taking this course.
My name is Shirica Gulledge and I am a non-traditional student. My husband and I have 3 children. I am taking this class because it is one of the required classes toward my degree. I hope to become a better writer after taking this course.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Tentative Schedule
TENTATIVE COURSE SCHEDULE
This schedule will evolve as the class progresses. Changes will be announced both on our blog and on FerrisConnect. Full instructions for the items on this list, including page numbers will be posted as they become available. Unless otherwise noted, all weekly writing assignments and discussion questions will be assigned on Monday and due by Sunday. All readings unless noted will be provided in handout form/online at our blog and on FerrisConnect.
1.12 Wk 1
Course intro, Getting started (Blogger/FerrisConnect)
• Discussion online
• Intro assignment (on blog)
1.19 Wk2
• Discussion online
• Website evaluation assn. (in your field of study)
1.26 Wk3
• Discussion online
• Professional Journals Assignment (field of study)
2.2 Wk4
• Discussion online
• Literature Review (Rough Draft)
2.9 Wk 5
• Peer Review Groups (on discussion board) Literature Review
• Action/Revision plan Lit. Review.
2.16 Wk 6
LONG ANALYTICAL REPORT assigned
• Discussion online
• Literature Review (Final Draft) DUE
• Long Analytical Report proposals
2.23 Wk 7
• Discussion online
• Summary of Crisis (Part of Rogerian Essay)
3.2 Wk 8
• discussion online
• Persuasive Plan for Rogerian Argument Essay, using Toulmin Model
MARCH 9-13 SPRING BREAK – NO “CLASS”
3.16 Wk 9
• Discussion online
• Rogerian Argument Essay (Rough Draft)
3.23 Wk 10
• Peer Workshops (discussion board groups), Rogerian Argument essay
• Progress Report and Brief Annotation Due (Long Analytical Report)
3.30 Wk 11
APA style, Documentation of sources, Revision
READ: handouts forthcoming
• Discussion online
• Rogerian Argument Essay (Final Draft)
4.6 Wk 12
• Discussion online
• Long Analytical Report, Rough Draft Due
4.13 Wk 13
• PEER workshop GROUPS Long Analytical Report (Rough Draft on discussion board)
4.20 Wk 14
Discussion conference w/ me (last Q’s about final Paper)
• Final Draft, Long Analytical Report DUE (4.26)
4.27 Wk 15
Course Wrap up
• Discussion online
• Semester “process” writing DUE
This schedule will evolve as the class progresses. Changes will be announced both on our blog and on FerrisConnect. Full instructions for the items on this list, including page numbers will be posted as they become available. Unless otherwise noted, all weekly writing assignments and discussion questions will be assigned on Monday and due by Sunday. All readings unless noted will be provided in handout form/online at our blog and on FerrisConnect.
1.12 Wk 1
Course intro, Getting started (Blogger/FerrisConnect)
• Discussion online
• Intro assignment (on blog)
1.19 Wk2
• Discussion online
• Website evaluation assn. (in your field of study)
1.26 Wk3
• Discussion online
• Professional Journals Assignment (field of study)
2.2 Wk4
• Discussion online
• Literature Review (Rough Draft)
2.9 Wk 5
• Peer Review Groups (on discussion board) Literature Review
• Action/Revision plan Lit. Review.
2.16 Wk 6
LONG ANALYTICAL REPORT assigned
• Discussion online
• Literature Review (Final Draft) DUE
• Long Analytical Report proposals
2.23 Wk 7
• Discussion online
• Summary of Crisis (Part of Rogerian Essay)
3.2 Wk 8
• discussion online
• Persuasive Plan for Rogerian Argument Essay, using Toulmin Model
MARCH 9-13 SPRING BREAK – NO “CLASS”
3.16 Wk 9
• Discussion online
• Rogerian Argument Essay (Rough Draft)
3.23 Wk 10
• Peer Workshops (discussion board groups), Rogerian Argument essay
• Progress Report and Brief Annotation Due (Long Analytical Report)
3.30 Wk 11
APA style, Documentation of sources, Revision
READ: handouts forthcoming
• Discussion online
• Rogerian Argument Essay (Final Draft)
4.6 Wk 12
• Discussion online
• Long Analytical Report, Rough Draft Due
4.13 Wk 13
• PEER workshop GROUPS Long Analytical Report (Rough Draft on discussion board)
4.20 Wk 14
Discussion conference w/ me (last Q’s about final Paper)
• Final Draft, Long Analytical Report DUE (4.26)
4.27 Wk 15
Course Wrap up
• Discussion online
• Semester “process” writing DUE
Syllabus
ENGL 321 – Advanced Composition
Spring 2009
Room# - online
Section #’s – V10, V11 & V14
Instructor: Jamie Thomas
Office: 013b ALU
Office Hours: T/R 10-11, W 10-12 & by appointment
email: thomaj21@ferris.edu
Office phone: 231.591.3076
MATERIALS
- a good college dictionary
- MLA/APA style handbook (may also consult www.mla.org)
- printing costs
Texts:
[No Required texts]
links to pertinent web sites and handouts provided by me on FerrisConnect
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND OUTCOMES
English 321, Advanced Composition, is an upper-division advanced composition course that builds on the rhetorical and stylistic skills/techniques developed in freshman and sophomore level writing classes. It offers students preparation for successful writing experiences professional contexts and for advanced academic work. This course is designed to help writers develop the thinking and organizing skills needed for effective written expression. Among other emphases, particular attention is given to such special skill requirements as found in the interaction of style, purpose, and audience in diverse and complex writing situations.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon Completion of ENGL 321, students should be able to
• analyze and define the purpose[s] of their writing, understanding the rhetorical contexts underlying the production of both academic and professional writing.
• locate, integrate, and document information appropriate to their writing.
• analyze and define the needs of their intended audience.
• analyze the writing task and choose appropriate methods of organization.
• produce effective written communication, demonstrating appropriate use of language, sentence structure, grammar, and mechanics.
• work effectively with others to produce and/or revise written materials, using instructor and peer feedback in the revision process and responding to others’ written texts for effective revision.
THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT ONLINE COURSES
Computer access and e-mail are, of course, critical to this course. Students should plan to use FerrisConnect e-mail (and their assigned Ferris e-mail addresses which can be set to relay to another e-mail address if you wish).
We will be using FerrisConnect as the platform for our course, as well as a class Weblog through Blogger.com that will be created and to which I will invite you. Microsoft Word is the software application students must use for all documents. Microsoft Office Suite is available to all Ferris State University students for a licensing fee of $25 and an additional $10 for the title. For details, contact the Ferris office in the University Center at 231-995-1734 or toll free 866-857-1954.
Computing Skills: You need to have these computing skills before this class begins:
• E-mail with attachments
• FerrisConnect access, login, navigating, discussion boards, attaching text files
• Microsoft Word: all basic word processing skills, margins, fonts, indents, page numbering, and so on
• Microsoft Word: comment feature (we can do some tutoring on this during class)
IMPORTANT NOTE: I cannot personally help you with computer problems. Make sure you have phone numbers and backup help for emergencies. There are links on the Ferris homepage to TAC (Tech Support) and you can visit http://www.ferris.edu/webct/knowledge/qna10.cfm for questions regarding connecting to FerrisConnect. It is also a good idea to have a second place to work from if/when your computer crashes. Computer problems do not constitute excuses for not submitting work on time.
Format Issues:
• All rough and final drafts must be typed.
• The drafts must be clearly marked as to their assignments.
• All documents must be dated (with a date on each page after the first one in the footer).
• All letters and memos must follow the formats detailed in the text.
• A letterhead of your design should be used on the first page of letters and memos.
• Headers and bullets must be used to make the document easier to read.
• All pages other than the first page should be numbered and include appropriate material in the header or footer (your name, the company name, or the name of the document).
• Good design and layout is an important part of a document and will be evaluated.
GRADING
You must complete all major assignments for the course in order to receive a passing grade. Late work will be deducted 1/2 letter grade for each day it is late. You will be expected to participate professionally—turn in your work on time, collaborate, and pull your load, meaning willing participation in all facets of virtual-classroom life, and sincere effort to improve your own writing and that of your peers through any peer review, revision, and online conferencing. Rudeness in any form will not be tolerated. Offenders will be asked to leave the “class”.
Your final grade will be determined, primarily, by your written work. Roughly, I will follow these percentages:
Weekly Discussion posts 15%
Weekly writing, drafts, response, blog
assignments (1-2 pgs. ea.) 30%
Literature Review 15%
Rogerian Argument Essay 15%
Long Analytical Report 25%
Scale:
94 - 100 A 77 - 79 C+ 0-63 F
90 - 93 A- 74 - 76 C
87 - 89 B+ 70 - 73 C-
84 - 86 B 67 - 69 D+
80 - 83 B- 64 - 66 D
Specific requirements of individual assignments may change, but in all cases, my evaluation will consider content, originality, command of language, mechanics and maturity of thought. (Please note that effort is not considered in the determination in your grade.) More specifically, assignments will be considered roughly as follows:
Topic/Purpose Development: 50%
Organization and Support: 30%
Style and Mechanics: 20%
WEBLOG
During the first week of class, I will create a weblog through Blogger.com. My hope is that our blog will provide an outside forum where info can be shared and conveyed, assignments changed and verified, and virtual “lectures” conducted. In essence, it will be a place that mirrors our FerrisConnect site; you will be able to find our schedule and evolving info there, which will be especially helpful if FerrisConnect ever breaks down (which is inevitable). Also, you will post responses to short assignments there, this will help facilitate “classroom” dynamics.
DISCUSSION BOARD
Along with the weekly readings and writing assns., you will be expected to answer/respond to short discussion questions. These questions will be my way of sparking virtual "discussion" of topics that will arise. It will also be a forum whereby students can "meet" to bounce ideas off of each other, respond to the poetry in an informal manner, ask questions, bring up ideas, etc. The discussion board will be governed by professional behavior and an attitude of discovery - that is, a place where ideas can be not only formed but tested.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
While students are not required to attend this course in a literal classroom, students are required to participate in this course consistently. Students who disappear (i.e. don’t turn in work) for more than three weeks (either consecutively or nonconsecutively) may be subject to automatic failure of the course.
Spring 2009
Room# - online
Section #’s – V10, V11 & V14
Instructor: Jamie Thomas
Office: 013b ALU
Office Hours: T/R 10-11, W 10-12 & by appointment
email: thomaj21@ferris.edu
Office phone: 231.591.3076
MATERIALS
- a good college dictionary
- MLA/APA style handbook (may also consult www.mla.org)
- printing costs
Texts:
[No Required texts]
links to pertinent web sites and handouts provided by me on FerrisConnect
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND OUTCOMES
English 321, Advanced Composition, is an upper-division advanced composition course that builds on the rhetorical and stylistic skills/techniques developed in freshman and sophomore level writing classes. It offers students preparation for successful writing experiences professional contexts and for advanced academic work. This course is designed to help writers develop the thinking and organizing skills needed for effective written expression. Among other emphases, particular attention is given to such special skill requirements as found in the interaction of style, purpose, and audience in diverse and complex writing situations.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon Completion of ENGL 321, students should be able to
• analyze and define the purpose[s] of their writing, understanding the rhetorical contexts underlying the production of both academic and professional writing.
• locate, integrate, and document information appropriate to their writing.
• analyze and define the needs of their intended audience.
• analyze the writing task and choose appropriate methods of organization.
• produce effective written communication, demonstrating appropriate use of language, sentence structure, grammar, and mechanics.
• work effectively with others to produce and/or revise written materials, using instructor and peer feedback in the revision process and responding to others’ written texts for effective revision.
THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT ONLINE COURSES
Computer access and e-mail are, of course, critical to this course. Students should plan to use FerrisConnect e-mail (and their assigned Ferris e-mail addresses which can be set to relay to another e-mail address if you wish).
We will be using FerrisConnect as the platform for our course, as well as a class Weblog through Blogger.com that will be created and to which I will invite you. Microsoft Word is the software application students must use for all documents. Microsoft Office Suite is available to all Ferris State University students for a licensing fee of $25 and an additional $10 for the title. For details, contact the Ferris office in the University Center at 231-995-1734 or toll free 866-857-1954.
Computing Skills: You need to have these computing skills before this class begins:
• E-mail with attachments
• FerrisConnect access, login, navigating, discussion boards, attaching text files
• Microsoft Word: all basic word processing skills, margins, fonts, indents, page numbering, and so on
• Microsoft Word: comment feature (we can do some tutoring on this during class)
IMPORTANT NOTE: I cannot personally help you with computer problems. Make sure you have phone numbers and backup help for emergencies. There are links on the Ferris homepage to TAC (Tech Support) and you can visit http://www.ferris.edu/webct/knowledge/qna10.cfm for questions regarding connecting to FerrisConnect. It is also a good idea to have a second place to work from if/when your computer crashes. Computer problems do not constitute excuses for not submitting work on time.
Format Issues:
• All rough and final drafts must be typed.
• The drafts must be clearly marked as to their assignments.
• All documents must be dated (with a date on each page after the first one in the footer).
• All letters and memos must follow the formats detailed in the text.
• A letterhead of your design should be used on the first page of letters and memos.
• Headers and bullets must be used to make the document easier to read.
• All pages other than the first page should be numbered and include appropriate material in the header or footer (your name, the company name, or the name of the document).
• Good design and layout is an important part of a document and will be evaluated.
GRADING
You must complete all major assignments for the course in order to receive a passing grade. Late work will be deducted 1/2 letter grade for each day it is late. You will be expected to participate professionally—turn in your work on time, collaborate, and pull your load, meaning willing participation in all facets of virtual-classroom life, and sincere effort to improve your own writing and that of your peers through any peer review, revision, and online conferencing. Rudeness in any form will not be tolerated. Offenders will be asked to leave the “class”.
Your final grade will be determined, primarily, by your written work. Roughly, I will follow these percentages:
Weekly Discussion posts 15%
Weekly writing, drafts, response, blog
assignments (1-2 pgs. ea.) 30%
Literature Review 15%
Rogerian Argument Essay 15%
Long Analytical Report 25%
Scale:
94 - 100 A 77 - 79 C+ 0-63 F
90 - 93 A- 74 - 76 C
87 - 89 B+ 70 - 73 C-
84 - 86 B 67 - 69 D+
80 - 83 B- 64 - 66 D
Specific requirements of individual assignments may change, but in all cases, my evaluation will consider content, originality, command of language, mechanics and maturity of thought. (Please note that effort is not considered in the determination in your grade.) More specifically, assignments will be considered roughly as follows:
Topic/Purpose Development: 50%
Organization and Support: 30%
Style and Mechanics: 20%
WEBLOG
During the first week of class, I will create a weblog through Blogger.com. My hope is that our blog will provide an outside forum where info can be shared and conveyed, assignments changed and verified, and virtual “lectures” conducted. In essence, it will be a place that mirrors our FerrisConnect site; you will be able to find our schedule and evolving info there, which will be especially helpful if FerrisConnect ever breaks down (which is inevitable). Also, you will post responses to short assignments there, this will help facilitate “classroom” dynamics.
DISCUSSION BOARD
Along with the weekly readings and writing assns., you will be expected to answer/respond to short discussion questions. These questions will be my way of sparking virtual "discussion" of topics that will arise. It will also be a forum whereby students can "meet" to bounce ideas off of each other, respond to the poetry in an informal manner, ask questions, bring up ideas, etc. The discussion board will be governed by professional behavior and an attitude of discovery - that is, a place where ideas can be not only formed but tested.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
While students are not required to attend this course in a literal classroom, students are required to participate in this course consistently. Students who disappear (i.e. don’t turn in work) for more than three weeks (either consecutively or nonconsecutively) may be subject to automatic failure of the course.
Welcome Aboard
WELCOME ABOARD!
English 321, Advanced Composition, is an upper-division advanced composition course that builds on the rhetorical and stylistic skills/techniques developed in freshman and sophomore level writing classes. It offers students preparation for successful writing experiences professional contexts and for advanced academic work. This course is designed to help writers develop the thinking and organizing skills needed for effective written expression. Among other emphases, particular attention is given to such special skill requirements as found in the interaction of style, purpose, and audience in diverse and complex writing situations. This is the “company line” as it were, what Ferris State outlines the course. There are outcomes quantifying the anticipated course learning experience on our syllabus as well, and they are accurate and a good demarcation of our learning goals, but these are also jargonous practical terms. Let’s face it—most success in writing will depend upon how well you communicate your ideas, orders, reports, etc. I used to work as an associate editor at a literary journal where the editor kept especially bad cover letters for the bulletin board in the office. From that I learned this: write well, sound good, blend in, stand out by not making someone’s cork board. There is no shortchanging the importance of fostering one’s written communication skills.
So we will use as much discussion and actual writing as possible (through our Blog and the Discussion Board) to come to terms w/ the readings and also w/ our writing selves. If it helps we can think of the Blog and discussion board as virtual classrooms—and interaction is a key component.
The writing you engage in will be the kind you’ll find in the practical world, and hopefully will allow you to concentrate as often as possible on your field of study. Some may be new, some may be practice—but all writing is muscular, that is, you get stronger by putting up the reps. Be sure as well that I will work as hard as I can to make sure that the atmosphere of our class is one of interaction and the free exchange of ideas. I don’t expect that we will always agree with one another, but as long as we remain courteous, constructive, and professional then we can truly have a place where ideas collide in an energetic yet positive way.
I hope that you enjoy yourselves in your learning. Always feel free to contact me by phone/email whenever you have questions, concerns, suggestions, or ideas. Good luck and here’s to a great semester.
Best,
Jamie Thomas
English 321, Advanced Composition, is an upper-division advanced composition course that builds on the rhetorical and stylistic skills/techniques developed in freshman and sophomore level writing classes. It offers students preparation for successful writing experiences professional contexts and for advanced academic work. This course is designed to help writers develop the thinking and organizing skills needed for effective written expression. Among other emphases, particular attention is given to such special skill requirements as found in the interaction of style, purpose, and audience in diverse and complex writing situations. This is the “company line” as it were, what Ferris State outlines the course. There are outcomes quantifying the anticipated course learning experience on our syllabus as well, and they are accurate and a good demarcation of our learning goals, but these are also jargonous practical terms. Let’s face it—most success in writing will depend upon how well you communicate your ideas, orders, reports, etc. I used to work as an associate editor at a literary journal where the editor kept especially bad cover letters for the bulletin board in the office. From that I learned this: write well, sound good, blend in, stand out by not making someone’s cork board. There is no shortchanging the importance of fostering one’s written communication skills.
So we will use as much discussion and actual writing as possible (through our Blog and the Discussion Board) to come to terms w/ the readings and also w/ our writing selves. If it helps we can think of the Blog and discussion board as virtual classrooms—and interaction is a key component.
The writing you engage in will be the kind you’ll find in the practical world, and hopefully will allow you to concentrate as often as possible on your field of study. Some may be new, some may be practice—but all writing is muscular, that is, you get stronger by putting up the reps. Be sure as well that I will work as hard as I can to make sure that the atmosphere of our class is one of interaction and the free exchange of ideas. I don’t expect that we will always agree with one another, but as long as we remain courteous, constructive, and professional then we can truly have a place where ideas collide in an energetic yet positive way.
I hope that you enjoy yourselves in your learning. Always feel free to contact me by phone/email whenever you have questions, concerns, suggestions, or ideas. Good luck and here’s to a great semester.
Best,
Jamie Thomas
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