Summer is here...

It's been a pleasure and honor working with you all this semester.

Have fun and be safe this summer.

Look forward to seeing you either in my classrooms next semester or around campus.

Best wishes,

Malcolm

1101 AND 1102 for Week of April 13-16

No Empty Desks!

You've finished drafts of your final papers and now you're wondering what we're going to do in class while I busily grade papers. Right?

We're going to work on our portfolios.

Come to class every day prepared to work on your portfolios. We'll go over the assignments, as necessary, and talk about how to put them together. You can ask questions or work quietly.

Three more weeks, folks. Three more weeks. Can you digg it?

mc

1102 - Don't Poop Out

Howdy everyone,

Please check your e-mail for a note from me sent today around 6:30 p.m.

It contains important information about your remaining assignments and crucial attachments for you to read. Also, check Blackboard for these same documents if you have trouble with e-mail attachments.

Note: We will NOT have class tomorrow, Thursday April 9.

Your position papers are due on Tuesday, April 14.

We are in the final stretch. Please don't poop out now.

Holler with questions/comments/concerns,

Malcolm

1101 - Assignment for Monday, April 6

Onward Competent Writers!

Here are some reminders of material we've discussed, activities I suggest you do, and an assignment due by TOMORROW (Thursday, April 2) and e-mailed to me. (See below.)

1. Our next class MEETS in the LIBRARY in ROOM 125 at 9:30 and at 11 am (depending upon your class time). Please do not be late.
   
2. Review the previous post (below on the blog) about writing a review, PLUS visit the links in the post.
3. Look over the list of subject possibilities you created in class today and E-MAIL one or two things you might review. Do this by Thursday!! (My e-mail is mwcampbe AT uncc.edu)
4. Read the useful "HOW-TO" information in Chapter 5. It will help you write your essay.
5. Read and re-read your assignment sheet. Note the directions. Remember never to underestimate the value of following directions.

The three major components in a review are: (1) Criteria (2) Evidence (3) Judgments. On Blackboard, you'll find a document listing these three components that will be helpful in outlining and structuring your essay.

Begin thinking about the criteria you'll use to evaluate (make judgments about) your thing: book/movie/car/boyfriend/cell phone/restaurant, etc.

I know we're near the end of the semester, BUT please don't slack off now. You've worked too hard to let your good work go to waste.

Email, as always, with questions. Have a great weekend

Malcolm

1102 Assignment for Thursday, April 2

Drafting time!

Please begin a draft of your position paper. (I know that many of you already have.) Do not feel as if you need to write "strong" prose at this point: I want you to begin structuring your outline into paragraph form. (Use page 326 as a fairly good guide to a position essay outline.)

Realize that any progress on a draft is better than none, so if you feel stymied in your writing, press onward with the points you'll make - paragraph by paragraph - in incomplete sentences.

In particular, pay attention to the areas giving you the most difficulty: your introduction? Thesis? Background? Sub-claims? Evidence? Further research?

Prepare a quick self-evaluation letter TO TURN IN on Wednesday that answers these questions:

1. How do you feel the start of your drafting process is going?

2. What part of your position paper are you finding easiest?

3. What areas cause you the most concern AND why?

4. What are some issues you'd like addressed in class in the coming week that will help you complete your paper?

At the top of the page, place your name, topic and the position you're taking.

See you Wednesday.

mc

1101 Assignment for Wed, April 1

Well done, folks, on finishing your last paper. I'm looking forward to reading your revisions.

Here's the low down on your assignment for Wednesday:

1. Read "Chapter 5: Writing a Review." I'll be scanning your eyes, looking for nods of affirmation suggesting you've read and digested the materialo.

2. Create a quick list of things you might evaluate. As you read the chapter, you may get some ideas. This is freewriting process work that will appear in your folder when you turn the paper in, so be sure to do it.

3. If you didn't get the assignment in class today, visit Blackboard to download the information.

4. Visit these previous Blog lists for some good "How-To" articles about how to write a book review, movie review, restaurant review, etc.

http://unccwriting.blogspot.com/2008/11/evaluative-how-tos.html

http://unccwriting.blogspot.com/2008/11/for-book-reviewers.html

1102 - Essay Clarification Answer

Hello everyone,

A question came in that might be of help to everyone.

Q - What type of essay are we writing? Is it more like the first assignment or more like the bibliography?

A - This paper is a full-fledged research paper. An example in structure of how your paper is to be written is the "Got Roddick" essay in our textbook. I think it's in the chapter on Rhetorical Analysis, but for sure the page numbers are on your assignment sheet.

The difference between your paper and the Got Roddick essay is that your paper is a position paper -- an argument you make on your issue -- and not an analysis, which is what the "Roddick" essay is.

The examples of argumentative/position papers in Chapter 13 are guides to what you're writing, though some of them might be longer than what's called for in your paper.

ALSO, note that there are examples of position essays in the chapter on Blackboard in assignment #1 (I think). Check out all your past reading and you'll get a sense of the charge.

Hope that helps everyone -- also hope that you're having a good week. I'm so happy that you're all working so hard on your essay, even as I write.

Malcolm

Hear me now: What is da homework?

Read your paper and process assignment sheets carefully. Make sure you write me with any questions now (vs. a day or so before the paper is due).

Here's your reading assignment: pages 18-19 on fallacies.

Chapter 13 on Writing a Position Paper

AND here's your process work homework:

Write one fallacy related to your argument for each type of fallacy listed on pages 18-19. This will force you to see the inherent flaws in some arguments you might be tempted to make in your position paper. Will head mistakes off beforehand, if you will.

Also, please consider adding some more thought to the exercises we did in class today.

For example, continue working on specific definitions related to your topic that you'll need in your paper. List any special terms that readers might not know. If your position involves discussion of legal decisions, be prepared to name the laws or applicable court decisions and to summarize the outcomes -- as they relate to your position.

Finally, think through the appeals you'll make. Brainstorm how you'll use emotional or logical appeals to the reader, in addition to ethos.

All of this material -- I PROMISE -- will help you write a better paper, as well as make the process much easier.

See you next time.
mc

1101 Revised Papers Due Monday 3/30

Allrighty,

Everyone has three extra days to turn their revisions in -- please turn them in on time. Ninety percent of you do, which is helpful.

Note that you've also been assigned reading for Monday: Chapter 5 in your textbook, "Writing a Review".

On Monday, I'm looking for a room full of sharp students who understand the basic terms addressed in your assignment sheet.

Last, you received an e-mail with two PDF's: One is the PowerPoint slide show I deleted by accident. The second is the Evaluation Paper assignment.

Let me know if you have questions. Good luck on your papers, keep it between the lines.

Malcolm

1102 Reading & Assignment

For Tuesday, please read Chapter 13 in your textbook about Position Arguments.

Also, prepare a "quick" outline of your intended coverage. For example,
1. Introduction - how you might introduce your argument
2. Primary Claim: Thesis that states/maps evidence to follow (Do you want to use the word "should"?)
3. Claim
(a) evidence
(b) evidence
4. Claim
(a) evidence
(b) evidence
5. Counterargument 1
(a) explain counterargument
(b) counter it...
6. Counterargument 2
(a) explain counterargument
(b) counter it...
7. Conclusion

Note, of course, that you can have as many claims/counterarguments, bits of evidence, etc. as your argument calls for. This is basically a quick outline for you to consider at this stage of your research.

Did I mention reading Chapter 13?

Have a great weekend.
mc

1101 REVISION materials

Thanks for making your appointments and spending time learning how you can improve your paper. I handed out one document, as you know, and mentioned a couple others to help.

First, on the back of your revision assignment sheet (on blackboard), there are two exercises that help with focusing your essay and creating a thesis.

Second, on Blackboard, also under Assignment #3, you'll find a document "Common Revision Elements" which gives some help on issues I see frequently.

Note that I"m also uploading a document called "Revision Issues for conference handout". This will help you with some of the techniques we discussed in conference -- especially the margin outline.

I know Spring Fever is beginning to hit. PLEASE don't start to slack off now. Your grades depend upon your active participation and ability to FOLLOW directions for the remainder of the semester. I'm impressed with your intelligence and want to see you all earn the grades that you're capable of earning.

FINALLY, we will SKIP PEER REVIEW for next Monday. Get started on your revisions right away; however, instead of peer review, I'll address some of the revision steps you need to consider plus be available to answer questions you have.

Thanks,
Malcolm

1101 CONFERENCE SIGN UPS

It's conference time to discuss your expository essays and suggestions for the revised essay, which is the next major paper assignment. Conferences will be held in the Ritaza coffee shop in the basement of Fretwell. (I'll have a table toward the back where I can plug in my laptop.)

We will NOT have class on Monday (3/16) and Wednesday (3/18); however, if you miss your conference, it will count as an absence. If you are late to conference, you will only have the time remaining until the next appointment.

The fairest way to sign up for conferences is to have a first-come, first-served process handled online. You can start signing up now. Directions are below. I will ALSO go over this in class tomorrow, so if you have any questions, we'll discuss them then.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Pick a day/time that you want to meet and then view the COMMENTS to see if that time has been taken.

2. If it hasn't, POST A COMMENT stating the day and time that you want.

3. INCLUDE your name because screen names don't help me. For example, "Malcolm Campbell, Monday 3/16 at 9:00 am."

4. Remember that the first one to claim a slot gets it, so be sure to check very carefully for conflicts. (If you don't look carefully and assume you got a slot but doubled-up, you'll be disappointed when you arrive for your conference.)

Periodically, I will come through and add names to the list so you can see the time slots; however, always be sure to check the comments carefully.

Monday, March 16 in Fretwell Ritaza

9:00 – 9:10 Taylor Ciucevich
9:10 – 9:20 Jay Gozum
9:20 – 9:30 Katie Pohlheber
9:30 – 9:40 Jessica Barton
9:40 – 9:50 Ashlei Elise
9:50 – 10:00
10:00 – 10:10 Marlita Howell
10:10 – 10:20 Wayne Dobken
10:20 – 10:30
10:30 – 10:40 Tom Ryan
10:40 – 10:50 Grace Jeffreys
10:50 – 11:00 Matt McAnally
11:00 – 11:10 Danielle Rowley-Jenkins
11:10 – 11:20 Clifford C.
11:20 – 11:30
11:30 – 11:40
11:40 – 11:50 Alex Walker
11:50 – 12:00 Ike Keziah
12:00 – 12:10 Nathalie Mendez
12:10 – 12:20 Eber Peña
12:20 – 12:30 Samantha Delzell

Wednesday, March 18 in Fretwell Ritaza
9:00 – 9:10 Anthony Bauer
9:10 – 9:20 Safia Abbas
9:20 – 9:30 Shayla Conley
9:30 – 9:40 Joseph Hawk
9:40 – 9:50 Adam Voncannon
9:50 – 10:00 Mercedes Miller
10:00 – 10:10 Mina Gerges
10:10 – 10:20 Tierra Lewis
10:20 – 10:30 Danielle Kee
10:30 – 10:40 Ashley Ferguson
10:40 – 10:50 Raquel Bullock
10:50 – 11:00 Sammy
11:00 – 11:10 LaTrice Young
11:10 – 11:20 Katrina McGann
11:20 – 11:30 Kyle Merville
11:30 – 11:40 Chee Xiong
11:40 – 11:50 Ashe Lyles
11:50 – 12:00 Katelyn Middleton
12:00 – 12:10 Kelsey Malin
12:10 – 12:20 Marcus Robinson
12:20 – 12:30 Lilia Shaforostov

1102 work for Thursday 3/05

Okay: we are NOT working in the library. Meet in our classroom. Bring your laptops, or bring a couple sources of material from which to read and brainstorm further research. (I'll explain in class.) You might bring an extra copy of your annotated bibliography.

Come prepared to research, research, research. Bring questions for me about anything related to research. Your goal this session is to leave with at least three new research sources that you can use in preparing your position paper.

For our next class:

1. Sketch out (outline and write) a background for your topic. Provide a detailed definition for your topic. (A good example is the Euthanasia article's first paragraph. Your topic may require a different approach; however, the goal is to define exactly what your topic is about.)
2. Continue a CLOSE reading of the Euthanasia article. Ask yourself: "What are her reasons for believing that euthanasia should be the patient's choice when faced with a terminal illness?" Look at every paragraph -- even every sentence -- and figure out how she's building her argument in favor of euthanasia. What words help the writer make her case? (Specific adjectives can be very powerful. Do you see any that help argue?) Does she make use of examples? Where? To make what points?
3. Come prepared to discuss the article.

Good work in class today. I was impressed with the reasons you came up with for both sides of each option -- the paper or process assignments.

See you Thursday

Malcolm

1101 Assignment for Monday, March 2

A major component of writing -- and certainly of English 1101 -- is learning how to revise your work.

During the next five nights and four days, I want you to:

1. Re-read two articles on Blackboard: The "Explaining" chapter under Assignment #2 (Expository Essay) AND "Questioning Your Way to a Better Personal Essay" under Assignment #1 (Personal Narrative)
2. Read Chapter 11 in your textbook on Revision
3. Begin work on your Personal Narrative Revisions

Now, ya'll just holler with any questions!

mc

1102'ers: Annotated Bibliography reminders

As you prepare your final drafts for Thursday, remember to review the assignment sheet for what to include, how your work will be evaluated and so forth.

Other reminders:

Your bibliography must appear in MLA formatting. You have formatting information in the back of your textbook, as well as on the Owl site from Purdue University:

Ask yourself if you've done the following for each of your annotations. (This is also courtesy of Purdue's website.)

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/557/01/

• Summarize: Some annotations merely summarize the source. What are the main arguments? What is the point of this book or article? What topics are covered? If someone asked what this article/book is about, what would you say? The length of your annotations will determine how detailed your summary is.

  For more help, see our handout on paraphrasing sources.

• Assess: After summarizing a source, it may be helpful to evaluate it. Is it a useful source? How does it compare with other sources in your bibliography? Is the information reliable? Is this source biased or objective? What is the goal of this source?

  For more help, see our handouts on evaluating resources.

• Reflect: Once you've summarized and assessed a source, you need to ask how it fits into your research. Was this source helpful to you? How does it help you shape your argument? How can you use this source in your research project? Has it changed how you think about your topic?

Brittany Reports: The Library Works!

Newsflash - this just in:
UNCC really does have a library, staffed by Reference Librarians AND... they're helpful.
Here's Brittany's note:

Howdy Mr.Campbell,

This morning I went to the Reference Librarian and she helped me so much! At first I was kind of weary that we wouldn't find anything scholarly since my issue is new, but things quickly turned around when we looked up octuplets on the internet! She gave me books to look at like Ideologies and Technologies of Motherhood and Baby Bussiness. Thanks for referring me to her!

Very Excited,

Brittany S. McClendon

So, I ask: What are you waiting for?

1101 - For Monday, Feb 23 Peer Review Papers

So, you've got your peer review papers due Monday...but what if you have a question about structuring your paper, outlining it, writing it?

What we went over in class today is the importance of READING the following pages from the "EXPLAINING" chapter on Blackboard:

From the bottom of page 368 to the middle of page 385.

If you read this carefully, I GUARANTEE you will find some information that's valuable to you, right where you are.

(Not all of it may apply to your personal situation, but read it all because it's sure to help.)

Before you write, pay special attention to how to create "leads" (introductions), how to pose your thesis and how to map the essay. There's nothing mysterious about this; don't make it harder than it needs to be.

Also, pay attention to how various words create smooth transitions between paragraphs. You'll note these in the reading.

If you have questions, please e-mail me or post a question on the blog. Note that I'm not liable to reply on the weekends or late at night. I have three good reasons to be in bed early: they are ages 10, 7 and 4.

A big group hug to you all,

mc

For 1101 & 1102 students on Research

In addition to visiting your reference librarians with assignment sheets in hand and a fairly focused idea of what you're researching, I want to encourage you to use the library's online databases for research, too.

Not only that, use the card catalog to search for books.

How to instruction is included on Blackboard in the General Research and Academic tab; however, here's a quick primer for reaching the library's online databases. Go to the library's website. (If you are not on campus, SIGN IN using the "Login from Home" feature at the top of the web page. You must do this to access the databases.)

On the left column - "FIND INFORMATION" - come down and click on "Articles, Papers, Reports." (For books, which is a GREAT idea, too, click the first link: "Books, Catalog...")

Now click "Writing". This takes you to a page where you can make use of a good how-to resource called "Research Guide for Writing". Included on this link (in addition to another link to the actual how-to Research Guide", is a link to "Resources for Controversial Topics". Here you will find a good list of popular, reputable magazines (organized by their editorial bent - i.e. conservative to liberal) and you can follow those to search and find sources for your topics.

Now, back to the page you reach from clicking on "Writing": Notice the Databases in the list beginning with "Academic Search Premier". Read through the descriptions of each database and see if one is more helpful than another for your topic.

In general, the most basic and helpful databases are:

1. Academic Search Premier
2. MasterFILE Premier
3. Newsbank

Note that the more specialized databases (Science Direct for anything related to any kind of science; Business Source Premier for business articles; PsycARTICLES for mental health related topics) are excellent, too.

Once you've selected a database and connect to it, then use search terms related to your topic and you should find many sources depending upon your topic. (For example, "Alcoholism" will bring up TONS of articles. "Alcoholism" AND "symptoms" will bring up more specialized topics.)

What I personally find most helpful are those that offer immediate access to FULL-TEXT html or PDF documents; however, the reference librarian will show you how to access any that do not immediately take you to the full article.

Don't delay on your research. The earlier you do it, the more focused and comprehensive your papers are, which makes for better evaluations.

Dig?

Engl 1101 - for Wednesday, Feb 18

Good work in class today. Here's the bottom line for work you should be doing and for what to bring to class on Wednesday:

1. VISIT your reference librarians and ask for their help in locating suitable "academic" resources to use for research.

2. Bring some of your research to class on Wednesday so you can work on your paper.

3. Continue to refer to the Blackboard readings for examples of how writers address the three questions (what, how, why), how they cite research in text, and how they structure their essays.

4. Use a focus statement to help you plan how you'll write paper. (See the post below with links to previous posts for an example.) You might try this format for a focus statement: "I'm going to explain (what/how/why - or whatever combination)...
First, I will ___________________.
Next, I will ___________________.
Finally, I will __________________. "

5. Remember that your peer review paper is now due in a week - Monday, Feb. 23, and the final paper is due Wednesday, February 25.

Thanks - as always write with questions or ask in class
mc

English 1101 - Assignments for Monday, Feb 16

Quick recap of where we are in the expository essay process:

By now, you have:

1. Read the Investigating and Explaining chapters on Blackboard.
2. Gone through the questions WHAT, HOW and WHY and looked at examples of how each is answered in various texts
3. Discussed in class the Anorexia & Alcoholism essays in class.
4. Discussed how an introduction and thesis "maps" the essay to follow.
5. Paid close attention to how the authors cite their sources in-text in the essays we've read and begun thinking how you'll use similar statements in your work. (For example, using phrases like ... "According to Malcolm Campbell, instructor of English at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, most students find writing a worthwhile exercise. "Often students begin the semester believing themselves to be awful writers but then they realize they're far better than they thought," Campbell says.)

Most of you have your topics, know what questions you plan to answer, and understand that you're on the journey toward research. As I shared, research will almost always help you narrow/refine (and sometimes change altogether) your topic.

SO, now you're onto researching your essay topic. On Blackboard, you will find a new folder & document with good research suggestions. It's called, "Good 1101 Weblinks for Research & Writing." It includes numerous places to go for how to research a topic. (My two suggestions are the UNCC link and the OWL at Purdue link.)

I've also directed you to visit the REFERENCE LIBRARIANS and to explain that you're writing an expository essay about (insert your topic) and can they please help you locate some good academic source information. (Take your assignment sheet with you.) Another excellent place to visit is the WRITING CENTER in Fretwell. Take your assignment sheet with you and an individual will sit down with you to help you shape your topic and create a research plan.

Your sources must be credible research sources - scholarly journals, reputable magazines (Time, Newsweek, etc.), or reliable websites. You cannot use Wikipedia or About.com or similar websites. Please e-mail if you have any questions about the reliability of your sources.

For Monday, please prepare a FOCUS STATEMENT about your topic. This will help you begin to shape your essay's content. I've pasted a couple links to previous Blog Posts from last semester to help you determine what a focus statement is.

http://unccwriting.blogspot.com/2008/09/sample-focus-statement-expository-essay.html#links

Here's a link to a good question someone asked about topic coverage:

http://unccwriting.blogspot.com/2008/09/good-topic-question.html

Last, here are to links related to UNCC's Writing Center (which is FREE!!!). The first is a blog post I did on what it's there for. And the second is a link to the actual center for hours, phone number, etc.

http://unccwriting.blogspot.com/2008/12/writing-center-consultations.html

http://www.uncc.edu/writing/wrcindex.html

This is a long post, but I hope it helps clarify what you should be up to about now. Feel free to write with any questions. I'll be out of town this weekend without e-mail but will get back to you next week.

Thanks

Malcolm

1101 Work for Wednesday Feb. 11

What?
How?
Why?

The three questions of expository writing, or writing that explains. We went through some dry material today; however, after you read it, we talked about it in class, AND after you read it again (tonight/tomorrow) for Wednesday, you'll have a good grasp of how addressing one or more of these questions will create a thorough, informative essay.

1. So, part of what you're to do is re-read the assignment (listed below in a previous post), paying special attention to the material defining the three questions -- what? how? why?
2. Next, I want you to use the additional previous reading to rattle loose some ideas about the topics you're considering. Narrow your ideas down to one, or at most, two.
   
3. Identify which questions you plan to address. For example, if you're writing about melanoma, you might plan on answering WHAT it is (a short definition) as well as HOW TO decrease your chances of getting it.
   
4. For your one (or two) topic ideas, write down an initial list of sources you might consult. For example, if you've had melanoma, then you will be one source. You might add such source ideas as a dermatologist, articles in a newspaper or magazine about melanoma, or perhaps a reputable medical website. We'll do some group work together on Wednesday, and I'll also ask everyone to come up and share their thoughts with me during class.
5. Re-read the John Schwartz essay (285-289 Investigating chapter), as well as the "Michelle, Alcoholic" essay and pay close attention to how sources are used. Where do they appear in the text? How does the author cite them? In what way does the author use them -- to help answer what questions?
   

Thanks - see you on Wednesday,

mc

help please

So Im not sure what im looking for in an article to do the assignment for tuesday. Ive spent the last four hours looking at articles online and I havent been able to find anything. I searched the library data base online and didnt find anything. Im not sure about my topic either. I think Im going to use embryonic stem cell reasearch and its ethical issues or something like that.

1102 - Peer Drafts Due Monday

How do, ladies and gents?

I've just sent an e-mail to each of you detailing what you've got on your assignment plate for Tuesday:

1. Use the document "Bottom Line - How to write Essay #1 Argument Analysis.pdf" to write your draft for Monday. The document was e-mailed AND it's available on Blackboard.
   
2. Bring TWO typed copies of your draft for peer review on Tuesday. Also, bring TWO photocopies of your argument, so your peers can read that and then help you determine if you identified all of the argument elements.
3. Let me know if you have questions.
4. Be nice to your families.
5. Don't forget to brush your teeth.
6. Enjoy the warm weather this weekend. (I will.)

Thank you, bye-bye.
mc

1101 Assignment for Monday, Feb. 9

Today, I collected papers from the 018 class (11 a.m.) and went over the assignment sheet for our next paper assignment. So, my 9:30 a.m. class didn't miss much at all. (You can access the assignment sheet on Blackboard and I'll have hard copies for you next Monday.)

You have two main assignments for Monday: reading and generating a list of potential topics for your essay.

This essay's reading is mostly online. I've posted the #2 assignment (Research-based Expository Essay) on Blackboard, as well as several PDFs. There are two chapters from a textbook I used last semester, and also two essays (on anorexia and bulimia) in another document.

I don't expect you to get through all the reading, so here are the priorities.

1. In "Reading #1 - Explaining", read pages 344-352. PLUS 369-370 on choosing a topic.
2. In "Reading #2 - Investigating", read pages 280-281. PLUS pages 312-314, beginning with "Investigating: The Writing Process" through the end of the choosing a topic selection.
3. In "Reading #2 - Investigating", read the essay "Parent-child..." by John Schwartz on pages 285-289. Make note of and count all the instances of different sources the author cites. Write down each source in your journal. Each entry can read simply: "1. Michael Gartenberg, VP/Research Director, Jupiter Research."
4. Read the two essays - one on Anorexia and the other on Alcoholism. Be prepared to speak about these in class, as it relates to which questions the authors answer: What? How? Why?

Okay, e-mail me with questions. Look forward to seeing you Monday. Have a great weekend.

mc

1102 - Assignment for Feb 4

Folks,

Here's what I listed on PowerPoint as the assignment for tomorrow:

1. Select ONE of your argument examples from the previous assignment (to find 2-3) and mark the thesis, claims, evidence, recognition of opposing arguments, any appeals to audience. Bring a copy for pair-work.
2. Read the TWO sample arguments I put on Blackboard & prepare for in-class group discussion. We'll work to identify the argument elements in both.
3. Get caught up on your reading.
4. Work on your assignment.

Ah, but where are the two sample arguments? They are now on Blackboard, under the first assignment tab - a pdf entitled "Two Arguments for Class Discussion 2-5-09"

See you tomorrow.

mc

1101 - 9:30 a.m. class cancelled

Howdy -

UNCC canceled classes that begin before 10 a.m. because of snow/ice, but your papers are due today, right?

What to do? You have two options.

First, you can place your paper in my faculty mailbox (see directions on the syllabus) by tomorrow at 3:15 p.m. at the latest and I'll take them home and begin reading over the weekend.

Second, you can turn them in on Monday, February 9 without penalty.

I look forward to reading them! In the meantime, please look for additional posts on this blog and check your e-mail for updates and your assignment for Monday.

Stay warm,
mc

1101 - Work for Monday, Feb. 2

Did I mention the importance of reading your assignments? I can't remember.


Okay, here's the official work for next class, plus a pasting of what you might try to bring your narratives more to life on the page.


Assignment:

• Personal Narrative: Prepare a draft of your essay, bring to class for your own use. We’ll spend time writing.

• Reading: Re-read portions of Chapter 4 that have to do with moving from sketch to draft. Also the essays mentioned below. A tip about reading: If you're having trouble with an aspect of your essay -- the beginning, the ending, or using specific details, etc. -- go back to the essays and read them focusing on JUST that element you're working on. For example, if you're struggling with your ending, go back through Chapter 4's essays and the ones that I'm posting on Blackboard and read JUST the endings to get a sense of how authors do it.

• Essay Examples: As I’m able, I’ll post more documents with essays for you to read and examine. As you know from the Chapter 2 (on reading), you should strive to read each piece twice (at least) to look carefully at what choices the author makes. I will put up examples that capture various styles of essays.

General tips/writing exercises from class that you might include in your portfolio:

• Pick a place in your essay and freewrite by adding dialogue, metaphoric language, a scene.

• Use the book’s questions about discovering the point of your essay. (Good questions to ask: pp. 105, 111-112)

• Find your point – the moment your essay builds up to – and freewrite about that moment. Try to avoid, “I realized…”; “Suddenly I saw that…” See if you can write more subtly.

As always, check here daily to see if I've made more posts - OR if your classmates have. Look also for comments on various posts that may post questions.

Have a safe weekend.

mc

1102: "An Inconvenient Truth" assignments - 1/27/09

Today and Thursday we'll watch "An Inconvenient Truth", which makes use of many elements of argument. I've never seen the film, so I'm looking forward to watching it with you.

This week, I want you to supplement your understanding/enjoyment of "An Inconvenient Truth" by reading a handful of reviews and academic analyses of the film.

Using our library's online databases, locate and read 2-3 reviews of the film, as well as 2 academic articles about it. If you want a refresher on how to use Atkins Library's resources, visit our class Blackboard, where you'll find a document with research suggestions.

Meanwhile, this is a good article with which to start from the online magazine "Slate".

CLICK HERE

Now is also a good time to make sure you're caught up on our reading to date:

• Chapter 7: Writing Effectively in College
• Chapter 1: Generating ideas
• Chapter 2: Critical reading - logical fallacies very important, page 18-19, writing to learn (20-21)
• Chapter 3: Thesis Statements/Mapping
• Chapter 4: Revising, revising, seeing again
• Chapter 10: Rhetorical Analysis How To
• On Blackboard: Another Rhetorical Analysis chapter (+ more to come)

1101 - question about personal narrative topics

Hi folks,

Several of you have asked the following question:

Q - Is it alright if I write about my experiences with alcohol and/or drugs?

A - Yes, it is.

But please don't write about your experiences with alcohol or drug use if either occurs before or during my classes.

That's just common sense, right?

mc

Engl 1101 - assignments for Wednesday, Jan 28

Howdy all -

Good group work today in class. Peer work is always rated as one of the highlights of 1101 classes, so we'll do a fair amount of it provided it's productive time for everyone.

Here's the work for next class:

• Narrative Sketch: prepare a rough draft of your narrative essay that captures the major elements of your story as you envision it now. Remember: write without critiquing yourself at this point. Your goal is to get the "story" down, to capture details as you can but not to "perfect" a draft. Read through Chapter 4 about the nature of sketches. There's a sample sketch beginning on page 109. You do not have to type this; however, I'd like it to be in a condition that you can share with your group. In other words, photocopy it to share for feedback. We'll look at each others' work and discuss the broader elements, including conflict/opportunities for scenes, dialogue, etc. E-mail me or post any questions on this here blog.

• Reading: Have I mentioned the importance of reading Chapter 4, plus relevant material from previous chapters? Have I talked about re-reading and how that re-inforces what you've read? I hope to help you re-remember the importance of reading and then re-reading. I anticipate e-mailing or posting on Blackboard a good essay we might discuss.

• Essays: As you re-read Chapter 4, pay attention to the following details in these essays. On page 91, in Naomi Shihab Nye's essay, pay special attention to how she uses strong adjectives in her description, plus how she uses time -- the back and forth movement between present and past tense. On page 95 in Judith Ortiz Cofer's essay, pay attention to the details in her writing: the use of sight, sound, smell, etc. Also, note how she structures her essay in time. (Hint: look at the first two words of the essay.)

• Again, keep an eye out for an e-mail from me notifying you when Blackboard is up and running. Right now, I'm waiting for the computer folks to combine my two 1101 sections into one course so I can post everything just once.

See you in class on Wednesday.

mc

Engl 1102 - assignment for Tuesday, Jan 27

Hi folks:

Here's the work for next class.

Topic Research: Find 3 (or more) short articles/opinions/arguments from “credible” sources about your favorite topic. (Journal articles from library databases, books/chapters from books, developed articles/ op-eds from reliable newspapers/magazines -- NOT material from a website like About.com/Wikipedia.

Also, be prepared to do some group work with your topic selections. We'll break up to help one another think through what topics might work best for a semester-long project.

• Read your first essay assignment that was just e-mailed to you.

• Read Chapter 10 in your textbook. Check this blog and watch for Blackboard as syllabus and assignment materials become available.

• Use your textbook (Chapters 10, 13, plus the index) AND the library database to find and write short definitions for these argument elements:

1. The purpose


2. Claim (including claims of fact, value, policy). The main claim is called the __________?Evidence: what does evidence do?


3. Rebuttals/counterarguments


4. Audience appeals: name and define the three major types of appeals

1101 - Homework for Monday, Jan. 26

Hello everyone -

Thanks for completing your Interest Inventory and turning them in on time. I look forward to reading them. If you haven't turned in a hard copy but completed the assignment, please place a copy in my faculty mailbox. Directions to the English Department mailroom are on your syllabus.

If you missed class today, you did not receive a copy of an assignment (about selecting your topic for the personal narrative essay). This assignment is due Monday. I will e-mail the document to everyone, so you'll have it. In the future, I will be placing all documents I give out on Blackboard, so you can download.

NOTE: Blackboard is not yet enabled for my classes. I will do that later this week or over the weekend.

For Monday:

• Personal Narrative: Your essay topic ideas are due by next class. Type them and bring three copies so you can share with peers.

• Journal assignment: Observe one thing: building, car, courtyard, person. Try to capture specific details. Use the senses. Try a metaphor/simile/comparison.

• Reading: Chapter 4! Pay special attention to sections about topic selection. (If you failed to finish Chapters 1, 2, and 3, finish those by Monday. They will help with your assignments, and I'll discuss the concepts from those chapters throughout the semester.)

1101 - Question about Reading Exercises

Hi -

This is a good question about the exercises in the book, The Curious Writer.

Q - Am I supposed to do the exercises in the book when you've assigned a chapter to read? I've done some but not all of them.

A - No, you don't have to do the exercises unless I specifically assign them. But, doing some of them in your journals IS a good idea for two reasons.

First, most exercises are quite good and will help you grow as a writer. Second, when I'm reviewing your portfolio at semester's end and see that you took time to do a few unassigned exercises in your journal, I grade more favorably.

I hope that helps. Please post any questions you have as a "comment" to this post.
mc

Engl 1102: Got Class?

You ain't got no class.

But Obama does. Happy Inaugural Day!

Stay warm
mc

Engl 1102 - Homework for Tuesday, Jan. 20

Your majesty, Peter, and his faithful servants:

Here are your assignments for next class, Tuesday, January 20:

• Your typed topic assignment is due. Read the assignment page for questions. (I'll be out of e-mail range this weekend.)

• Read Chapters 1-4! (4 is an addition, but short) Also, read Page 33 and re-read pages 65-67.

• Bring a magazine to class next Tuesday and do the exercise on page 60. Be prepared to discuss your answers.

• Be on the lookout for arguments all around you: read newspapers' op-ed pages, notice advertisements, listen to NPR or tune into the News Hour with Jim Leher. Notice when you or your friends make a claim and whether you (or they) back it up, or not.

• Have fun this break.

mc

eng 1102

did we just have to come up with 5 topics for tomarrow?

ENGL 1101 Homework for Wednesday, Jan 21

Great start to our classes, folks. I've enjoyed meeting you and look forward to our semester together. We'll have a great ride.




Here are your assignments for our next class:

• Interest Inventory is due. Please bring a printed copy. Also, please e-mail me a copy. Follow the directions for how to name the file. Also, I sent a copy of one I filled out last semester. You don't have to read it unless you want help seeing how you might fill out the answers. The point is to elaborate as much as you can on the questions. It's a long form, so allow yourself time to complete it.

• Read Chapters 1, 2, and 3 in The Curious Writer.

• On page 7, there's a brief questionaire to help you determine how you write. Use a piece of notebook paper and fill jot down your answers, plus any reactions to the followup material. This will not be collected or graded, but you'll want it for your end-of-the-semester portfolio. Also, we'll discuss briefly in class.

• Write five quick freewrites, beginning “I remember…” Each one should focus on a memory tied to one of the five senses: sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. For example, “I remember trying to throw a firecracker in sixth grade, and it blew up beside my ear. For two days, all I could hear was sounds coming from very far away, as if from a tunnel." These do not have to be long freewrites. I just want them to be descriptive memories that use the senses.

Bring your freewrites to class. We might read a few, if anyone is willing.

Have a GREAT break - remember to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.'s important legacy.
mc

Here Beginneth Spring Semester 2009

Welcome to the Writers Realm for English 1101 and 1102 students.

I've gone through and deleted most of the posts that weren't relevant to your upcoming assignments.

For 1101 students, please feel free to explore old posts. Whenever something is important, I'll create a post and provide a link to it. For example, here's the original "welcome" post:
http://unccwriting.blogspot.com/2008/08/welcome-to-english-1101.html

Remember: this is your blog, an opportunity for you to get and receive guidance, to share reactions to class material, etc. Later in the semester, you'll need to post occasional items, also.

Here's to a good semester:

mc