back to Classes

English 212, section 24 -- Topics in Critical Writing--Bablyon 5: Envisioning the Future: Home

Rex READ is not impressed!

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:
How do you envision the future? We will be examining articles, online commentary, and the television series Babylon 5 to analyze how the future is depicted. In-class and online discussions, written papers, and visual critiques or interpretations will be components of this course. These documents will be critical reflections and responses to Babylon 5 as a utopic or dystopic society. Blackboard and Moodle will supplement this syllabus as a place for online discussion and analysis of visual representations. A project will be submitted that presents the student's concept of the future, or offers a critique on one of the Babylon 5 episodes, or offers a critique of Patternmaster. This project will consist of a short Quicktime movie. The movie and a critical analysis on its composition and purpose will be a part of the B5 project portfolio.