English 1B - Composition and Literature
Gavilan College
Spring 2013
Erin Crook
Gavilan College English Dept.
Voice Mail: 408-846-4913
Email: ecrook@gavilan.edu
Office: Social Sciences 110
Office Hours: by appointment or drop-in during the following hours:
12:40-12:50 pm
Hu103
2:10-2:30 pm
12:40-12:50 pm
Hu103
2:10-2:30 pm
Dates, Times and Locations:
Mondays and Wednesdays, 12:50 - 2:10, Hu103
Course Description and Objectives:
English 1B is an introduction to literary analysis, and an opportunity to refine and practice the composition skills learned in English 1A. We will read, analyze and discuss literature in many forms: poetry, short stories, drama, and novels. The primary focus of students’ writing will be in-depth analysis of literature, but there will also be opportunities for students to practice their own creative writing skills. Additionally, students interact with one another in daily discussions, based on the readings and related subjects.
Students will engage with literature on many levels. Analysis is the primary goal, as students learn to interpret and recognize patterns and connections in the different forms of literature. To this end, students will read models of literary analysis in conjunction with the works themselves. We’ll explore how history, culture and literature influence one another. Additionally, we’ll study the basic elements of literature, including plot, character, symbol, theme, irony, imagery and figurative language (among others) and critically analyze these elements to come to an interpretation of each work.
As does all writing, literature has power to illuminate the human condition. Human beings are naturally reflective. We examine our lives; we seek to distinguish patterns, and to ascertain meaning from those patterns. Through reading and writing, we learn to make sense of the world. Imaginative writing differs from other types of writing, however, in its use of indirect, metaphorical and allusive language. Because it doesn’t necessarily require the rigorous clarity of non-fiction writing, a work of literature can be open to several different interpretations. Therefore, each piece will affect each reader uniquely, depending on the skills, experiences, opinions and ideas of each reader. Interpret and analyze as only you can, and in the process give me, the instructor, a further glimpse into the way you, as a reader, a writer, and a thinking human being, observe, reflect upon, and bring order and meaning to your life.
Texts:
Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Hacker, A Writer’s Reference
A novel, to be announced
A play, to be announced
A college level dictionary
Grading:
All out-of-class assignments must be typed and in MLA format: double-spaced, in 12 point Times New Roman font, with one-inch margins. A cover sheet is unnecessary. Each essay must be titled and page numbered. Essays are due by the end of the day (either in my hand, in my campus mailbox, my office, or via email) on the date specified. Late papers will not be accepted unless arrangements have been made before the due date. Plan carefully, and give yourself time to print and proofread your essays. I do not accept equipment failure or problems with email as a legitimate excuse for lateness. Revisions of all essays will be accepted (and encouraged!) and must be completed within one week of receiving the graded original.
Course Requirements
The course requirements are divided up into the following categories:
- Essays: Students will complete four essays on one of several choices of topics. Each essay will feature an in-depth analysis of one of several choices of literary works. One essay will incorporate research, and will feature a series of preliminary assignments.
- Seminars: The seminar is a guided group discussion about an assigned topic. We will engage in such discussions every week. The seminar portion of the class has four tasks: reading the material, thinking about the assigned questions, writing a brief (no more than 1 page) response to the question/s, and sharing some thoughts or ideas in class.
- Journals: I will provide some prompts for these journals, but you are free to write about whatever you like. I am especially interested in what connections you find between the ideas discussed in class and in your own life.
- Annotated Bibliography: Students will complete a focused annotated bibliography in MLA format.
- Evaluations: Students will complete a series of self and class evaluations at various intervals throughout the semester.
- Final: our final activity will be a poetry slam, where students are invited (but not required) to read their own poetry, or someone else’s, aloud.
- Participation: Students will be graded on their level of engagement in the class. This includes attendance, completion of assignments, and conduct in the classroom.
Assignments are due by the end of the day, either in my hand, in my campus mailbox, my office mailbox, or the class website. In-class activities cannot be made up.
Attendance
Students must attend class regularly, be on time, prepare all assignments in advance and participate in all class discussions and activities. Attendance is crucial, as most in-class activities cannot be made up. If you miss more than two meetings, you may be dropped from the class without notice; however, it is your responsibility to withdraw from the course through Admissions and Records. Failure to do so could result in a grade of F. If you know you will be absent, please let me know if advance via voice mail or email.
Special Circumstances
Spending many years as a student taught me that real-life expectations often conflict with academic goals. The very best of intentions can be derailed by sudden changes in your private lives. I am as flexible as I can be with students. You’d be surprised at how much I can accommodate a special circumstance. Keep me informed about changes in your life that will affect your progress in class.
I am willing to consider special circumstances only under the following conditions:
- Your circumstances change unexpectedly and drastically.
- You have proven yourself to be a conscientious and committed student.
- You inform me of changes in advance of any deadlines and due dates.
- You propose viable alternatives that will allow you to meet the requirements of the class.
Student Advisories
- Students requiring special services of arrangements because of hearing, visual, or other disabilities should contact their instructor, counselor, or the Disabled Student Services Office.
- Occupational/Vocational students – Limited English language skills will not be a barrier to admittance to and participation in Vocational Education Programs.
- Students are expected to exercise academic honesty and integrity. Violations such as cheating and plagiarism will result in disciplinary action, which may include recommendation for dismissal.
- Learning occurs most productively in a safe, respectful environment. Differences of viewpoints, orientation, and experience are expected and welcomed in class discussions. If you don't feel safe or respected, please talk to me or to Dean Fran Lozano at (408) 848-4702 or at flozano@gavilan.edu.
Turnitin
All English 1B essays will be run through Turnitin.com, the plagiarism-detection software service that Gavilan subscribes to.