English 104: Orientation
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This document outlines the objectives and structure of an English 104 course on critical thinking and composition. The course aims to expand on previous English courses and prepare students for university-level writing. It will help students write argumentative essays, evaluate materials critically, and distinguish between fact and opinion. The course is designed similarly to university courses, involving lectures, readings, and small group discussions. Students' grades will consist mainly of several essays, and students are responsible for their own grades and seeking help if needed. The document also defines and provides examples of argumentative essays.
English 104: Orientation
- 1. English 104 Critical Thinking and Composition
- 2. Course Objectives To expand upon what you learned in previous English courses To prepare you for university-level writing To help you to: Write a well-reasoned, organized argumentative essay Critically evaluate college-level material Identify common fallacies in logic Recognize a writer’s assumptions Distinguish between fact and opinion
- 3. University Level This course is designed to be more like what you would expect once you transfer to a university: You will listen to lectures and complete readings, then break into sections of small groups to discuss the ideas in greater depth among your peers. Most of your grade will consist of a few main essays. Your grade is your responsibility. If you are struggling, it is up to you to ask for help.
- 4. Argumentative Essay Also known as: Persuasive Essay Position Essay Analytical Essay Critical Analysis Any essay requiring a central thesis statement accompanied by supporting evidence is an argumentative essay.
- 5. Argumentative Essay Why is this important? One of the most common forms of writing at universities. Hopefully, this class will help you to think critically about certain issues and to better defend your position and persuade others that your opinion is correct. PhD: Obtaining a doctorate will likely require you to write what is essentially a book-length argumentative essay. At the professional level, it is used to discuss and debate a wide range of issues (such as scientific, political, artistic, and literary theories).
- 6. Argumentative Essay Examples: Hegemony or Survival: America’s Quest for Global Dominance by Noam Chomsky The Myth of Martyrdom: What Really Drives Suicide Bombers, Rampage Shooters, and Other Self- Destructive Killers by Adam Lankford 1421: The Year China Discovered America by Gavin Menzies
- 7. Grading • Class composed of three main topics: Language, Morality, and Gender. We’ll be examining essays and watching videos about these topics. See ‘Essays and Grading’ handout for more information