Northeastern State University

Tahlequah, Oklahoma

College of Arts and Letters

Department of English and Languages

 

English 1113   English Composition I            Generic

 

Time:            TTH 9:30-10:45, SH 229 and Writing Center

Instructor:            Dr. Mary Stanley                                                            Telephone: ex. 3621

Office:             Seminary Hall 343                                          e-mail: stanlemf@nsuok.edu

Office hours:  

 

Catalog Description of Course

Introduction to the processes and types of academic writing, critical reading and critical thinking. Designed to prepare students to write in a variety of academic situations and disciplines.   Prerequisite: English 0123 if student scores below the qualifying score on the College Placement Test. No major or minor credit.

 

Course Purpose

The freshman English requirement at Northeastern State University is a two-semester sequence of courses designed to help the student become a better reader and writer and a stronger critical thinker; all assignments will reinforce that purpose.  English 1113 focuses primarily on expository writing in the academic setting. As such, various models will are addressed. In addition, the procedure for taking essay examinations will be emphasized.

 

Expected Course Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student will be able to:

 

* prepare written summaries of material read

                        * critique and synthesize materials read

                        * write a three-page, thesis-based essay

                        * distinguish between formal and informal English, and use both

                           appropriately  

                        * apply the basic MLA style in formatting formal papers

                        * use the library for basic research

                        * use a standard writing program on a computer to produce essays

 

Required Text and Materials

Behrens, Lawrence and Leonard J. Rosen. Writing Across the Curriculum, 7th ed. (Reader).

Lunsford, The Everyday Writer  (Handbook)

Dictionary and Thesaurus

At least two pocket folders

 

Instructional Procedures

This is a class designed to improve student reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. The expected course outcomes will be realized through a variety of instructional strategies to complement students' life experiences.  These strategies include, but are not limited to the following: expository-discussion, demonstration, inquiry, and group activities.  Students will complete at least five essays, of which at least three will be based on readings found in the reader. At least one essay will be an in-class writing.  The essays must be completed in an acceptable manner in the format detailed in the assignment handout.  Each essay will receive a letter grade.  Work must be handed in on time, and any late work accepted (only under certain extenuating circumstances) may receive a reduction in grade.  Quizzes may be given over assigned readings. Students can avoid quizzes by doing the assigned readings and coming to class prepared to discuss and/or write about the readings’ content.

 

Students will participate in writing workshops for development of some of the papers.  It is essential that you be present with the assigned draft for each workshop day.

 

Assignment Due Dates

Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period on the date indicated when the assignment is given.  For major papers, if you are unable to have the work on time, I will give one twenty-four (24) hour extension with no penalty. If you cannot get the work done in that time period, you must come and discuss the matter with me.  I reserve the right to lower the grade on work that is handed in late, but no work will be accepted later than twenty-four (24) hours without discussion with me

 

Student Evaluation

Special interest paper and oral presentation           20%

Outside class essays & other papers                      40%                

In-class essay exam                                                10                        %

Class participation: writing workshop, group            30%

                        work, quizzes, etc.

 

Formal Papers

All papers done outside class will follow the MLA format and be double-spaced, typed or word-processed on white paper.  Retain all of your prewriting and drafts done to create the final paper. These are to be placed on one side of the pocket folder; the finished paper, on the other side. Retain all materials for special interest project, as these should also be turned in with the paper.

 

Student Performance Activities

This is a process-oriented course, and as such, regular attendance is required. If you miss class, be aware that being absent is not an excuse for being unprepared for the next class. Check with one of your classmates as to work done in class and what is needed for the next class period.  In addition, missing seven (7) or more hours of class will result in an F for the class.

 

***Please be aware that I cannot drop you from the class; if you stop attending and do not officially drop the course on your own, I will have no choice but to give you an “F.” The last day to drop a course with a “W” is November 9.

 

 

Assignment Due Dates

Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period on the date indicated when the assignment is given.  If you are unable to have the work on time, come and discuss the matter.  I reserve the right to lower the grade on work that is handed in late, and no work will be accepted late without discussion with me

 

Academic Honesty Be sure that the work you turn is your own.  Representing the ideas or words of others as yours is a form of academic dishonesty called plagiarism and can result in disciplinary action, even expulsion. To avoid this, simply give credit to those whose ideas and words you borrow.

 

ADA Compliance

If any member of the class feels he/she has a disability and needs special accommodations, please advise the instructor of such disability at the first class attended.

 

INCLEMENT WEATHER/DISASTER POLICY

The following are basic premises for the inclement weather policy at Northeastern State University

 

                        1.  Classes are expected to be held if at all possible.

2.  It is the student's responsibility to receive the information when weather is     

          questionable.

                     3.  Neither students nor faculty are expected to risk life or limb.

  4.  Faculty members are obligated to hold classes if the University is not closed,   unless the  faculty member is unable to get to campus.

 

                      Policy:  During times of inclement weather, decisions concerning day classes will be made by 6:00 a.m. in order for the media to be notified and for students to receive the announcement before they leave home.  Decisions concerning night classes will be made by 3:00 p.m.

 

The media will be notified regarding closing of the campus, and the automated attendant message on 918-456-5511 will be modified to include information concerning campus operations during inclement weather.