Many writers use their own lives and experiences to argue a position. Unit 1 focuses on using our past experiences as evidence in writing. In this unit, we will be reading and analyzing a variety of texts with special attention to main ideas, descriptive details, and organization structures. 

In addition, this unit we focus on basic reading strategies, academic vocabulary development, and academic writing conventions.

A key aspect of academic writing and critical thinking, is using evidence to draw conclusions. Unit 2 focuses on integrating sources into our writing to draw conclusions based on research. By conducting in-depth research and analysis, you will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence student success and develop critical research and writing skills. We will work on summarizing, paraphrasing, and quoting the work of others. Our readings will include opinion articles, TedTalks, and research reports. 

Of course, we don't communication with words alone. Often articles include texts, videos, infographics or other visual messages. In unit 3, you will think beyond text to offer advice to new college students. This unit we will focus on strategies to critically analyze texts, images, and videos.