Department of English and Journalism


English 280-37

Spring 2001



Bruce Leland
Simpkins 217
MW 3:00-4:00; TTh 1:30-2:30
mfbhl@wiu.edu
Blackboard

English 280 is the second required writing course at Western Illinois University, to be completed during the sophomore year. The course reinforces the centrality of writing in academic life, as a way of discovering and clarifying ideas, making informed judgments, communicating with members of a discourse community, and arguing toward conclusions.

Knowledge is developed in discourse communities as experts in fields share insights, exchange ideas, and debate positions. Reading, talking, research, and writing all play important roles in this social construction of knowledge. Students in 280 will participate in such a discourse community as they explore significant topics of academic interest.

Official Course Objectives

English 280 Information Sheet

Structure of the course

Media and Technology in 280

Internet Links

Blackboard Site for 280



Class Meetings: Class meets MWF from 1:00-1:50. We will alternate between the computer lab (Simpkins 321) and a classroom (Simpkins 324). If we are not in one room, we'll be in the other.

Grades: I tend not to grade with mathematical precision. The following percentages will, however, give you a sense of how your final grade will be determined:

    Major papers: 70%
    In-Class Writing: 10%
    Bulletin Board: 10%
    Participation and exercises: 10%

Grading Standards:

While we will concentrate on particular issues of thinking and writing with each assignment, all writing you publish (i.e. share with your reader) will be evaluated on its effectiveness in its rhetorical context, as measured by the customary standards for college writing.

Escape clause: This syllabus and the Blackboard site are subject to revision as circumstances dictate. You can expect additional links and revisions to be added with some regularity. It is your responsibilty to keep abreast of revisions.

Special needs: If you have a condition which requires physical accommodation in the classroom or which may interfere with your ability to complete course requirements, please let me know at once. If you have an emergency which keeps you from class, notify me by phone or email. If fasting for Ramadan or Lent causes problems, let me know about that too. Finally, if you feel you are falling behind at any time or failing to work up to your potential, come in to see me.


www.wiu.edu/users/mfbhl/280/syll-2001.htm
01/02/01