General Syllabus
Catalog Description
English 4325 is a study of advanced composition techniques, including theories and methods of teaching composition skills.
Course Overview and Goals
Course Description: The focus of this particular course is the study of the teaching of composition and literacy. The goal of the course is for you to be more aware of the history, context, and theories that have informed the formalization of teaching in this field. Some important goals of this course are for you to come to some working definitions of key concepts, including rhetoric and pedagogy, to study a specific pedagogical practice in depth, and to articulate your own pedagogical position.
We will approach some of the content for the course in groups. It is a writing-intensive course, so be prepared to do a good bit of reading and writing throughout the semester. You will be writing summaries of some of the readings. In class, we will have writing workshops with your groups.
Finally, you will also be expected to participate in online course meetings, give a brief online presentation, and to participate in an online professional development activity. I will expect you to become comfortable with utilizing an online environment to support teaching and professional development and to reflect on the impact of new technologies on the teaching of writing.
Required Texts:
Required texts for everyone in the class will be provided through the library, online, or in class. I do not have a textbook, but you will be responsible for accessing and maintaining your copies of course readings.
Using Tapped In
Student Learning Outcomes and Instructional Goals for Advanced English Courses
Student Learning Outcomes for English (SLOs)
SLO 1—Students will be able to interpret and analyze a text using different approaches from literary, rhetorical and/or linguistic theories.
SLO 2— Students in certification tracks will demonstrate knowledge and skills in the areas of writing, literature, reading, oral communication, media literacy, and English language arts pedagogy.
SLO 3—Recent graduates who majored in English will demonstrate satisfaction with the programs in the English Department.
SLO 4—Students will be able to use discipline-appropriate technology applications (such as library databases, computer applications, Internet research, non-print media, multi-media applications, desktop publishing, etc.) in preparation and presentation of course projects.