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English 212, section 31 -- Topics in Critical Writing--Technical Emphasis: Overview and objectives

The kats are on a treasure hunt.

ENGL212: Emphasizes processes of critical reading and writing, as applied to several modes of communication. Frequent writing assignments for different audiences, with attention to disciplinary conventions and rhetorical strategies for argument in academic discourse. Workshop approaches. Includes work in developing research questions and using library and electronic resources. Refines abilities to analyze both student and professional texts. Specific content for reading may be organized by theme. Sample topics: Introduction of Rhetoric, Reading Media, Writing About the Holocaust, Writing in Cyberspace. (Cross-listed with ENGL 285.) Prerequisite: ENGL 111

Overview:
Thinking about purchasing a car? What about a home? Is it better to be in a small town, where "everybody knows your name" and will look out for you? Or is it better to be in the big city to get the best deals? We will be examining roles and perspectives in a major purchase, examining the situation through critical reading and reflecting on the situation through critical writing. Research and discussion makes up a large portion of this course, so be ready to head to Zahnow's 2nd floor to discover the bound periodicals. Additionally, responses to this situation will be in a variety of oral and written forms--including a proposed letter-to-the-editor.

Course objectives are designed to enable students to:

• develop their processes for critical reading and writing
• develop strategies for reading and analyzing texts
• develop oral skills and presentation modes for discussing those texts