Writing

Outcomes for Writing Majors

1. Produce quality writing within a variety of genres; 
2. Demonstrate awareness of the publication process and of resources for writers who wish to share and publish their work;  
3. Articulate awareness of basic rhetorical principles and terminology. 

Goals for All Majors

1. Think effectively.  
   1. State well-reasoned positions on topics, developing and supporting that position fully and consistently with sufficient well-chosen reasons, examples, data and/or details;
   2. Interpret, analyze, evaluate, and make a decision regarding the statements of others.
2. Read effectively.
   1. Develop interpretive strategies that enable them to construct meaning from their reading of texts;
   2. Identify the major critical approaches in the discipline.
3. Write effectively.
   1. Produce quality prose writing in English and demonstrate the ability to incorporate others’ ideas—from written and other sources—into their own discourse;
   2. Develop facility in the composing process, embracing revision as an important tool; 
   3. Write a medium-length (10-15 pages), sourced academic prose about literary topics. 
4. Prepare for a life of purpose with distinction.
   1. Articulate the value of aesthetic, cultural, social, and personal awareness; 
   2. Engage in learning experiences beyond the classroom (service learning, internship, practicum, English-related student organizations, study abroad, etc.); 
   3. Become empowered to pursue lifelong learning, through:
      1.  evaluating traditional and electronic resources in the discipline;
      2. applying academic standards within the discipline, including the ethical use of sources, proper documentation, and stylistic conventions of academic writing; 
      3. becoming aware of career and graduate-school opportunities available to graduates with majors in English.