English 111
As discussed in the introduction to this section, writing is a learned skill. And in working with and reviewing numerous texts on teaching composition and learning how to write, there are some key stages that are emphasized throughout.
English 111 is a first level composition class that I have taught for many years. It:
English 111 is a first level composition class that I have taught for many years. It:
"introduces students to critical thinking and the fundamentals of academic writing. Through the writing process, students refine topics; develop and support ideas; investigate, evaluate, and incorporate appropriate resources; edit for effective style and usage; and determine appropriate approaches for a variety of contexts, audiences, and purposes. Writing activities will include exposition and argumentation with at least one researched essay" (Northern Virginia Community College, 2014).
|
Over the years I have worked through many variations of this class but always with three key areas: critical reading and analysis, working with rhetorical patterns, working with writing workshops.
As indicated above, the first area that is addressed in English 111 is that of critical reading and analysis. The phrase good readers are good writers is well known and widely believed. After all, analyzing an existing text can also reveal much about how it was written.
The second area, and one of the most common areas discussed in texts on composition, is that of the ‘patterns’ or ‘methods of development’. Understanding what these patterns are and learning how to use them effectively is key to developing good writing skills. There are several basic patterns or organizational methods. The following links take you to pages that give information and examples for each pattern.
The Patterns:
Cause and Effect Compare and Contrast Definition Exemplification Narrative Description Process Analysis Classification and Division |
The third area I call writing workshops. These are materials that cover grammar, mechanics, and special topics in writing genres and research. Specific examples are:
Each class section covers one pattern, an application/analysis activity tied to critical reading, and a writing workshop that brings in a topic that is appropriate for the major project students are in the process of developing. This video represents one of my earliest attempts at using the animated whiteboard.
|