English 103 Syllabus

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Course Description:

This course focuses on developing critical thinking, reading, and writing skills by studying established argumentative methods and models and applying them to contemporary issues. Emphasis will be on logical reasoning and analytical and argumentative skills necessary for critical writing. 

Textbook Information: 

Lunsford, Andrea A., et al. Everything's an Argument: With Readings. Bedford/St. Martins, 

2016.

• ISBN: 978-1319085742

Shelley, Mary Wollstonecraft. Frankenstein, or, The Modern Prometheus. Edited by J. Paul 

Hunter, W.W. Norton & Company, 2012.

• ISBN: 978-0393927931

Course Learning Objectives: 

Course Learning Objectives

I. Reading Arguments and Arguing Issues (16 hours)

The student will define terms; identify premises, syllogisms, deduction, and induction; evaluate evidence, examples, and arguments for soundness; assess authoritative testimony; draw inferences from statistics; and recognize rhetorical devices, such as sarcasm, irony, and satire.

II. Writing Arguments and an Analysis of an Argument (16 hours)

The student will develop a thesis; construct sound arguments; avoid fallacies; supply sufficient support for claims; write argumentative and persuasive essays on critical positions and problems; and write an analysis and summary.

III. Using Sources and Research Writing (8 hours)

The student will choose an argumentative topic, research and synthesize material, avoid plagiarism, and document sources.

IV. Applying Current Issues (12 hours)

The student will identify and explore contemporary issues such as women’s rights, gun control, English as the official language, etc.; evaluate and share opposing viewpoints; and identify and assess logical fallacies and rhetorical strategies in media.

V. Exploring Enduring Questions (12 hours)

The student will analyze timeless and universal questions such as inalienable rights, social order, free speech, etc.; consider various cross-cultural and historical perspectives of enduring questions with emphasis on cultural diversity; and develop an understanding for and a sensitivity toward different cultural and philosophical viewpoints.

Student Learning Objectives: 

Communication Skills             

1. 1. 1. Reading and Writing

1. 1. 1. Read critically in order to identify premises, syllogisms, deduction and induction; to evaluate evidence, examples, and arguments for soundness; to assess authoritative testimony; to draw inferences from statistics; and to recognize rhetorical devices.
      2. Develop a thesis; write argumentative and persuasive essays; write an analysis and summary; research argumentative topics; synthesize material; avoid plagiarism; and document sources.

1. 1. 1. Listening and Speaking

1. 1. 1. Utilize interactive listening strategies for note-taking and appropriate questioning.
      2. Determine purpose and goals for listening.
      3. Use speaking as a tool for idea generation and utilize prior knowledge through small and large group discussion.
      4. Verbally summarize and paraphrase effectively.

 Thinking and Reasoning             

1. 1. 1. Creative Thinking

1. 1. 1. Incorporate rhetorical strategies such as irony and satire.
      2. Generate ideas using prewriting strategies.

1. 1. 1. Critical Thinking

1. 1. 1. Write argumentative essays that are supported by evidence and are logically organized, using deductive and inductive reasoning.
      2. Synthesize information to produce a research paper incorporating research, using documentation and MLA format.

 Information Management             

1. 1. 1. Evaluate primary and secondary sources including Internet sources.
      2. Use library’s on-line catalogue and resources.
      3. Distinguish between professional journals and magazines and other periodicals.
      4. Demonstrate awareness of breadth of sources.
      5. Use sources ethically.

Diversity             

1. 1. 1. Cultural—read, understand, and demonstrate an appreciation of literary and expository works from diverse historical and cultural backgrounds.
      2. Social—read, understand, and demonstrate an appreciation of literary and expository works from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

 Civic Responsibility             

1. 1. 1. Ethical

1. 1. 1. Discuss moral dilemmas that are present in the readings.
      2. Examine both historical and contemporary social issues that are present in the readings.

Life Skills             

1. 1. 1. Students will develop knowledge and skills in areas such as creative expression, aesthetic appreciation, personal growth, and interpersonal skills.