English Department Goals and Competencies
E1 - I read texts critically to engage with ideas and to understand a variety of perspectives.
E1-a. I can use comprehension strategies effectively.
E1-b. I can understand the characteristics and purposes of various genres, formats, and writing styles.
E1-c. I can assess the validity of information that I encounter.
E1-d. I can recognize perspectives and biases in texts.
E1-e. I can use my experiences and the knowledge gained from texts to deepen my understanding of myself and others.
E2 - I use a variety of writing strategies to clarify my thinking and to communicate effectively with different audiences for specific purposes.
E2-a. I can think creatively in both analytical and creative writing.
E2-b. I can conduct research independently and compile evidence.
E2-c. I can organize and outline evidence to make an argument.
E2-d. I can construct a focused thesis statement and topic sentences.
E2-e. I can build paragraphs into an essay to prove an argument.
E2-f. I can cite sources properly both in-text and in the bibliography.
E2-g. I can revise my work to fully develop my argument/ideas.
E2-h. I can edit my work for concision and clarity and apply the rules of grammar.
E3 - I use my voice confidently in both speech and in writing.
E3-a. I trust my ability to express my ideas respectfully while recognizing other viewpoints.
E3-b. I can convey my ideas concisely and clearly.
E3-c. I take risks in communicating my ideas.
E3-d. I accept constructive feedback and revise my work accordingly.
E4 - I will use these skills--effective reading, writing, and speaking--to solve problems creatively and compassionately so that I can have a positive influence in the world.
E4-a. I take pride in my contributions.
E4-b. I can recognize writing, both my own and others’, as a vehicle to inform who I am and what I think.
E4-c. I will continue to grow as a lifelong reader who appreciates different genres and literary voices.
E4-d. I can exercise intellectual creativity and take risks as I engage with a complex world.