Degrees

ENG 105 College Writing Course Objectives:

To establish writing and thinking competency in each of the following forms: expository writing, precis writing, argumentative writing, and research writing.

1. To write essays which demonstrate critical thinking, definition, detailed description, analysis, and synthesis.
2. To compose a précis of a work, in connection to the research assignment, demonstrating ability to present a concise yet critical/analytical summary of a scholarly work.
3. To examine an issue and present well planned, carefully supported arguments in a research essay on an approved topic: 5-7 page original, fully documented academic essay in MLA style utilizing at least 5-6 sources.
4. To enable students to critically analyze their own writing and thought processes for bias and flawed logic, striving to correct these.
5. To utilize various forms of print and electronic references, evaluating each of these for logic, validity, and reliability.
6. To base style and language choice upon sound analyses of audience and purpose.
7. To subject a hypothesis to critical analysis utilizing data, facts, and authoritative expertise either to confirm or refute individual points of view.
8. To evaluate critically the underlying assumptions behind generally accepted viewpoints and “conventional wisdom.”
9. To recognize that effective writing involves processes of: thinking, discovering, planning, revising, editing, and proofreading.
10. To improve mechanical and stylistic aspects of writing while utilizing various means of discovery and research.
11. To understand the protocol of writing in standard, formal English for academic and professional purposes.
12. To demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing through careful reading and listening.
13. To approach the issues presented in class with professionalism and an open mind, using sound logic in thinking and expression of views. While students are encouraged to present their ideas, they should do so with an awareness of the way sexism, racism, homophobia, etc., negatively affect classmates and instructor.
14. To make informed decisions on moral questions, particularly those involving plagiarism, cheating, or lying.
15. To complete the writing process independently, when needed, and cooperatively, when applicable.
16. To participate in peer-editing as a tool for polishing writing.
17. To demonstrate effective research and information management skills.
18. To demonstrate perseverance and learn from mistakes as students self-direct life-long learning.
19. To appreciate writing as a creative outlet while recognizing the power and authority of the written word as it has both political and personal implications.
20. To utilize various forms of print and electronic references, evaluating each of these for logic, validity, and reliability.
21. To compose in an electronic environment and using the resources of word processing software to improve writing.
22. To compose work to be included in Student Credential Portfolios.
    For more information on portfolio policy, see the Lackawanna College Student Handbook and Lackawanna College Writing Guide.