English 381, Scientific and Technical Writing Spring 2002 Bruce Leland Western Illinois University

PURPOSE OF THE COURSE:

Technical Writing is the characteristic professional writing of any field or profession. It is written for a specific audience and usually involves conveying specific technical/professional information or arguments. English 381 builds on previously acquired writing skills with a focus on audience analysis, technical writing genres, mechanical accuracy, and a pragmatic approach to writing that works.

Note: All of the links and files that accompany this syllabus are accessed from the 381 English 381 Blackboard Site

PREREQUISITES: English 180 and 280

TEXTS:

• Markel, Technical Communication 6th edition
• Hacker. A Pocket Syle Manual
• Blackboard
• Class Web Sites

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Assigned readings from text and web
2. Writing projects including:
   • Resume and letter of application
   • Web site
   • Unsolicited letter proposing change
   • Instructions
   • Technical report or proposal in your field (Including oral presentation)
   (Specific assignments will be posted on the Blackboard site)
3. Participation in Blackboard Discussion Board (three times a week)
4. Faithful attendance
5. Full participation in class discussion and activities
6. Additional written or oral work as appropriate

CLASS MEETINGS

The class has access to both a computer lab and a classroom for the semester. Most of the time we'll meet in the lab. If we're not in the lab, we may use Simpkins 324 (next door to the lab) or Simpkins 214, the electronic classroom.

GRADING:

I don't usually grade with mathematical precision, but here is the relative weighting of the assignments:

Resume/letter: 10%
Web site: 10%
Unsolicited letter: 10%
Instructions: 10%
Major report/proposal/study in your discipline (including oral presentation): 40%
Class and electronic participation: 20%

SPECIAL NEEDS:

If you have a condition which requires physical accommodation in the classroom, or which may interfere with your completion of any course requirements, please let me know at once. If illness or personal emergency prevents you from attending class at any time, please let me know by phone or email. If at any time you feel you are falling behind or failing to work up to your potential, come in to see me.

Simpkins 217 298-2212 email: mfbhl@wiu.edu Web: http://www.wiu.edu/users/mfbhl/ Office Hours: MWF 1:00-2:00, Tu 110:30-11:30

DISCLAIMER:

Syllabus may be updated with written notice. All changes will be posted on the class web site.