Composition at ASMSA
Class Time/Location
Classes will meet in Writing Labs A or B on the 3rd floor of the Administration building during the period indicated on the master schedule. For the semester and unit schedules please consult your instructor's course site on Canvas.
Course Description
Composition I and II are structured courses emphasizing writing skills in the context of assignments given in other classes but carried out in Composition I and II; writing and reading across the curriculum is a significant element of both courses. Students begin with refining basic writing skills before progressing to various essay forms, science and social studies research papers, literary analyses, and college admissions essays. Students write one research paper per semester along with weekly essay and research assignments. Special emphasis is placed on writing skills needed for success in college. The course culminates with a detailed college admissions unit which is designed to prepare students for that process as seniors.
Textbook/Reference Materials
The ASMSA Composition Google site offers links to Purdue's OWL website as well as other links for writing and reading across the disciplines.
Course Objectives and Outcomes
Students will be able to
1. use higher order thinking skills to develop various modes of writing
2. write clear, concise, and well-structured paragraphs and essays
3. write with a clear authorial voice
4. identify and eliminate from their writing major grammatical, mechanical, and structural errors
5. write successfully in various prose modes
6. engage in the process of writing, from pre-writing, drafting, revising, peer editing, and final drafting
7. present their work to small groups or the whole class in written or oral forms
8. engage in the process of research in multiple disciplines
9. accurately document research
10. write to different audiences for different purposes
ASMSA Composition adheres to the policy of the Writing Program Administrators and its outcomes. These outcomes are easily located for student access as the first document under 2015-2016 Units.
Course Format
Composition I and II are designed to emphasize student autonomy and self-direction. In keeping with those goals, a significant portion of class time is dedicated to individual researching, drafting and in leading student-driven group workshops. In addition to working one-on-one with students, instructors will lead large-group discussions and introduce concepts, techniques, and texts with each unit throughout the semester.
Grading/Evaluation
Grades will be determined on the basis of total points. Each assignment has a predetermined point value (outlined in the individual units), and during each grading period all points earned by a student are tallied and then divided by the total points possible. There are no final exams in Composition I or II: therefore, grades are based on a semester-long period.
Students are given time in class and out of class to complete writing assignments. Therefore, students are expected to meet deadlines. If the failure to meet deadlines is due to an excused absence, the student will turn in the assignment on the day he/she returns to class. Grades for unexcused absences follow the parent/student handbook policy. Work handed in late will be graded according to handbook policy.
Other Important Information
Please refer to the Parent/Student Handbook for attendance and tardy policies. Also pay attention to the handbook regarding the Honor Code and Academic Honesty Policy.