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ENGL 1100 Writing I
Course Description
ENGL 1100: Writing I provides the undergraduate student with the foundation necessary for critical thinking through academic and other professional writing. Students will cultivate the skills of argumentation, uses of evidence, analysis, close reading of texts, and revision as essential elements of the college-level writing process.
Writing, as both a form of communication and a means of increasing as well as exhibiting academic abilities, and research, both formal and informal, are necessary components of almost every aspect of life. Developing these skills will open avenues in professional and personal capacities. As a result, this course is designed to allow opportunity to reflect on the writing processes, to practice and workshop these processes, and to produce pieces of writing suitable for audiences outside of our classroom.
This course is part of the Foundation for Lifelong Learning section of the General Education curriculum, addressing the Writing (W) learning outcome. Writing in the General Education curriculum is defined as courses that lead students to “[c]raft original texts to develop and express ideas working with different media including words, data and images.”
What Will We Learn?
At the end of this course, successful students, as defined by the FSU First-Year Writing Program goals and objectives, will be able to:
Rhetoric:
Understand the purposes of writing within specific and varied discursive communities
Develop means of persuasion with an awareness of audience
Recognize figures of speech and logical fallacies
Argumentation:
Identify and construct an argumentative thesis
Write essays that employ logical structures and transitions
Synthesize figures of speech and logical fallacies
Uses of Evidence:
Locate, evaluate, and select sources
Summarize and critique materials
Paraphrase and integrate materials
Cite texts properly
Process-Oriented Writing:
Build an essay in stages (from pre-writing and invention to drafting)
Practice the revision process
Differentiate between global and topical revision
Utilize the classroom as a workshop
Academic Community:
Make appropriate choice of tone, grammar, and format according to situation and convention
Acknowledge the standards and modes of academic integrity
Instructor: Dr. Kisha Tracy
Office: Miller Hall 204 (Mailbox: English Studies Department Office)
Student Hours: TuTh 11AM-12:30PM or by appointment
Phone: x4827
Email: ktracy3@fitchburgstate.edu (best way to contact) *Email Policy: with the exception of weekends, if you do not receive a reply in 24 hours, email again. Also please note: there is a student address with my name. If you use that address, I will not receive it.
About: Dr. Tracy is a Professor of English Studies, specializing in medieval British and early world literatures. Her research specialty is Middle English literature, the time period of Geoffrey Chaucer, especially memory and mental disabilities. Her hobbies include photography, martial arts, classic films, and trips to historical sites. She is also an avid fan of the Boston Bruins.
Pronouns: she/her
Credentials:
Ph.D., Medieval Studies, University of Connecticut
Certificate in College Teaching, Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts
Certificate in Mental Health First Aid, National Council for Behavioral Health
Course Requirements:
Course Requirements:
At a Glance
Activities: 20%
Revision: 10%
Professionalism (participation, discussion, Google Classroom discussion, attendance, group work, class preparation, etc.): 10%
Details
Activities: 20%
Several Activities will be required throughout the semester. Instructions will be given for each one individually. Much of the work for the Activities will be completed on the Padlet platform, linked straight from the Course Schedule.
Assignments demonstrate student achievement of learning outcomes: #1, #7, #10, #11, #13, and #14.
Why? "Active Learning for the College Classroom"
Position - Current Issues and Disability: 10%
In this first assignment, we will think about the issues related to disability that have arisen or been highlighted by the pandemic. This writing will be mostly focused upon the development of an argument based in opinion.
Assignments demonstrate student achievement of learning outcomes: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #11, #14, #15, and #16.
Review - Disability Exhibition: 15%
We will write a review of one of two disability exhibitions. One of the choices will be "Disability Heritage: From the Medieval to the Local," an exhibition created by students in previous Fitchburg State Writing I and Honors courses. We will explore the exhibitions, and then we will write reviews, concentrating on strengths and opportunities for improvement.
Assignments demonstrate student achievement of learning outcomes: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #11, #14, #15, and #16.
Non-Traditional - Disability Zine: 15%
This assignment will focus on producing a non-traditional style writing, a zine, conerning a disability topic of individual choice.
Assignments demonstrate student achievement of learning outcomes: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, #11, #14, #15, and #16.
Revision: 10% each
Revision is essential to the writing process. In this assignment, we will practice revision on one of the major writing assignments from the semester.
Assignments demonstrate student achievement of learning outcomes: #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, and #16.
Proposal - National Disability Museum: 20%
This assignment will focus on using everything we have learned in the semester in order to propose the creation of a national disability museum.
Assignments demonstrate student achievement of learning outcomes: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, #11, #14, #15, and #16.
Why? "The Information Literacy Imperative in Higher Education"
Professionalism (participation, discussion, Google Classroom discussion, attendance, group work, class preparation, etc.): 10%
Since it is necessary to attend class in order to receive instruction and participate, attendance will be noted. You have 3 absences – excused or unexcused – to use as you see fit. Suggestion: “spend” them wisely. 2 late arrivals will count as 1 absence. More than 3 absences will cost 1 letter grade per absence. 6 absences will result in FAILURE of the course. Exceptions will be made in the case of positive COVID diagnoses. Students who must miss a number of classes due to extenuating circumstances should contact the Dean’s Office (Sanders 204; 978-665-3130) and ask them to issue formal notification to all instructors regarding the absence. Students are responsible for all work despite any missed classes. *Students may, if they choose and as a courtesy, inform me of impending absences that fall into the above category. However, I will not always reply unless there is a question or concern to be addressed.*
While including attendance in class, this part of the final grade will involve participation in discussion and preparation of assigned materials, including readings and written responses. In order to participate in class and earn the participation grade, you must be fully prepared, engaged (which includes using laptops, etc., appropriately during class time – also, besides laptops, please turn off all electronic devices, especially cell phones, during class), present a positive attitude, and contribute to class.
Why? "Blend Online and In-Class Discussions to Give Every Student a Voice"
Notes on Technology:
Notes on Technology:
Class Site, Blackboard, and Google Classroom
There will be a Google site and a Google Classroom for this course, which will include announcements, discussion, links, etc. Many of the major assignments will be turned in through Google Classroom. A Blackboard course has been created for this class, and all of the information, including the syllabus, course schedule, and any changes thereto, will be posted. Links to on-line readings will be posted periodically. Only important Blackboard announcements will be posted; notices of these go to your school email. Students are responsible for accessing and reading all materials, including ANY announcements on Google Classroom and Blackboard. In addition, students will be responsible for checking the Google Classroom discussion and their school email account as both will be the primary methods of communication for the course. This means students are responsible for immediately contacting Dr. T if Google Classroom, Blackboard, and/or email become a problem.
Our class site is a public space. If, at any time, you have issues with any information (i.e. creating accounts, user names, use of legal name, etc.) that you are asked to publish in these spaces, especially if these issues are privacy related, please see the instructor in order to discuss your concerns and potentially make alternate arrangements. If you have any concerns with course responsibilities as related to FERPA rights, please see the instructor in order to discuss alternative options.
Why? "The Benefits of Sharing Student Work in Online Spaces"
Artificial Intelligence (AI - ex. ChatGPT)
There will be many opportunities during your college career to study and practice the ethics and efficiency of using AI (such as ChatGPT). In this course, our learning outcomes primarily include engaging with the process of writing and everything that entails. Using AI to produce writing (which research has found is inferior to writing produced by humans) is not a part of our outcomes and is not a substitute for the type of learning in which we are engaging. Thus, the use of AI should be saved for those circumstances in and courses for which it is appropriate and acceptable. (See also "Plagiarism/Academic Dishonesty" policy below.)
More information: Ethical Reasoning and AI
Course Policies:
Course Policies:
Due Dates
All due dates are listed on the Course Schedule.
Late/Incomplete Work
Late assignments without prior permission or without the presence of extenuating circumstances will result in a lowering of the assignment grade. For each class period that an assignment is late, the final will be docked one letter grade. In-class work must be completed at the designated times unless we have made a previous arrangement. PLEASE MAKE SPECIAL NOTE that any incomplete work that does not meet the guidelines provided for that assignment (i.e. page length, font, etc.) will be docked one letter grade.
Plagiarism/Academic Dishonesty
It is assumed that, at this point in your academic career, you are aware of proper citation and citation styles as well as appropriate use of source materials. Plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated and will result in FAILURE of the course. Academic integrity is central to the mission of educational excellence at Fitchburg State University. Each student is expected to turn in work completed independently, except when assignments specifically authorize collaborative effort. This policy extends to the use of artificial intelligence (AI), including ChatGBT. Pay attention as ignorance of the policy will not serve as an excuse. If an assignment becomes frustrating or you have questions, please discuss the problem with Dr. T. Read the University’s Student Handbook on the Student Affairs site and the Academic Integrity Policy.
Disabilities
If you have a documented disability for which you are or may be requesting an accommodation, please contact Dr. T and the Disability Services Office in the Hammond Building as soon as possible.
Canceling Class
If, for some reason (especially illness), class must be canceled when the campus is not closed, an email will be sent to all students by at least 8AM.
Food and Drink Policy
Unless there is a student with allergies in the class, food and drinks will be allowed.
Student Well-Being Resources:
Student Well-Being Resources:
A variety of issues can impede the learning process. If you are having an issue that affects your ability to learn in this course, please talk to Dr. T and/or find the help that you need. Some of the resources and information available on or about campus are provided here.
If you have an ongoing issue that prevents you from attending class or completing work, visit the Office of Student Affairs. By doing so, you can potentially receive accommodations.
Safety
(978) 665-3111
Campus Police provides services to promote campus-wide safety and is available to assist the campus community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Our Student Security Officers assist Police Officers in providing safe, escorts to and from any point on campus and the immediate neighborhood from 9PM-2AM. The Fitchburg State University Police Officers will provide escorts outside of those times and when the MART shuttles are not in service. All students are encouraged to get an escort. Use the emergency call boxes or telephone (978) 665-3111 to request one.
Financial Issues
Fitchburg State University can assist in securing additional funds to help you no matter the circumstances. Whether it's more money to finance your education, housing, meals, or emergency non-university, unanticipated expenses, we are here to provide the assistance you need.
Financial Aid and Student Accounts
Having trouble with holds? Buying books? Paying bills? Check with Financial Aid and Student Accounts.
Finding a Job
Note: while it is understandable that many need to be employed while in school, please keep in mind that taking a full load of courses is equivalent to a full-time job unto itself.
Physical and Mental Health
The ACTION Community Health Center is located close to our campus in Central Plaza at 130 Water Street (Market Basket plaza), where students can access a broad array of primary care services, behavioral health care services,* and dental care. Medical services are provided 8AM-5PM Monday-Friday, and 9A-1PM Saturday. The cost for accessing care will usually be determined by what type of insurance you have.
The Counseling Services Office offers a range of services including individual, couples and group counseling, crisis intervention, psychoeducational programming, outreach workshops, and community referrals. Counseling services are confidential and are offered at no charge to all enrolled students. Staff at Counseling Services are also available for consultation to faculty, staff and students. Counseling Services is located in the Hammond, 3rd Floor, Room 317.
Fitchburg Anti-Violence Education (FAVE)
FAVE collaborates with a number of community partners (e.g., YWCA Domestic Violence Services, Pathways for Change) to meet our training needs and to link survivors with community based resources. This site also features resources for help or information about dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship or has been a victim of sexual assault, there are many places to go for help. Many can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. On campus, free and confidential support is provided at both Counseling Services and Health Services.
Food Pantries
Food insecurity is a growing issue, and it certainly can affect student learning. The ability to have access to nutritious food is incredibly vital. The Falcon Bazaar, located in Hammond G15, is stocked with food, basic necessities, and can provide meal swipes to support all Fitchburg State students experiencing food insecurity for a day or a semester. The university continues to partner with Our Father's House to support student needs and access to food and services. Note that students do not have to provide proof of residency. You just have to show your Fitchburg State One Card to access the pantry. If you or someone you know is concerned about finding meals, please consider utilizing these services.
Study/Life Breaks
We all need a break every so often. Here are some of the options on campus:
Library Reading Nook (for extracurricular reading - first floor)
Academic Support
We use quite a bit of technology in this course. If you are having difficulty with a device, please talk to IT as soon as possible.
ACT Services:
Tutoring
Starts Monday, September 9.
General hours: M-Th, 10 AM - 7:30 PM; F, 10 AM - 3 PM.
Writing tutoring: M-Th, 10 AM - 7 PM; F, 10 AM - 4 PM.
Graduate writing tutoring can be requested online.
Academic Coaching:
M-F, 8:30 AM - 5 PM.
Peer Mentor Meetings:
This year, students can meet individually with Peer Mentors to work on Time Management, Procrastination, Organization, and Motivation
How to Access ACT Services
Students can sign up for all ACT services through NAVIGATE (https://fitchburg.campus.eab.com/), come by Hammond 306, email tutorcenter@fitchburgstate.edu, or call 978-665-3499
Ask a Librarian
If you have research or service related questions, please use our live chat, call the Research Help Desk at (978) 665-3223, or email the Research Help Desk . Staff and librarian contact information can be found on our staff profiles page. You can also schedule a research appointment with a librarian.
Book a Study Room (groups or individuals)
At the library - 9 large study rooms containing a conference table, white board, media viewing equipment, Apple TV, and seating for up to 8 people; 8 small study rooms containing a conference table, computer, and whiteboard.
Useful Information, Offices, and Services
Map of Gender-Neutral Bathrooms
Click here for a map of gender-neutral bathrooms on campus. They are designated with the following sign.
Parents and Parenting
To my knowledge, as of this point, the university does not have an official policy on children in the classroom. There might be disruptions in childcare for a variety of reasons; while it is not an advisable long-term child-care solution, children are welcome in my classes if necessary. I ask that parents and children sit close to the door in case you need to step outside. If you are a parent who is experiencing difficulty in finding time to study, please discuss options with Dr. Tracy to maintain your engagement in the class and your level of work.
The Commuter Affairs Program provides programs, services and facilities that directly address the needs of commuter students. The Commuter Affairs office is located on Ground Level of the Hammond Campus Center. The office is staffed by undergraduate Commuter Assistants who can answer your questions about commuter life, sign out lockers, and assist you in learning about your off-campus housing options. The lounge features comfortable couches and chairs, high-top tables, and a large television.
We are proud to have you at Fitchburg State University and we appreciate your service to our nation. Managing your educational, military and personal responsibilities can be a challenge, and we strive to provide the services and support necessary to achieve your academic goals.
Course "Rules":
Course "Rules":
Thou shalt...
…TAKE CARE of yourself mentally and physically. (This includes making every attempt to eat and sleep properly and to seek help if needed (see resources above). Research and common sense show that physical and mental stress impedes learning.)
…TALK TO THE INSTRUCTOR. (If there is a problem or a question, particularly about ANYTHING that may prevent you from completing readings/assignments, please talk to me either before or after class or by email. There is much I can do to help, but only if I know there is a problem. Unfortunately, I am NOT a mind reader.)
...PARTICIPATE IN DISCUSSION. (Some of the best insights for understanding texts and deciding on assignment topics comes from sounding ideas off of other people; use the class setting as an opportunity to do this. Also, class will be more interesting for everyone if there is lively discussion.)
…read and follow “Writing Expectations” document.
…remember to complete your on-going assignments.
…prepare questions and thoughts before coming to class. (It will be easier to participate in discussion if a few questions and impressions are brought to class.)
…attempt to make connections between readings.
…do all of the readings. (Not completing the readings is always very tempting. However, doing so will make it much more challenging to participate in discussion.)
…create drafts of work. (The importance of working on early drafts and soliciting feedback cannot be stressed enough. Turning in work that has not been reread, revised, and proofread automatically indicates a lack of professionalism.)
…plan ahead. (There is a schedule attached with all of the readings and assignments; take the time to look at this schedule and plan accordingly.)
…do outside reading. (It is perfectly appropriate and is encouraged for students to do readings and research outside of what is assigned; this will help to generate more discussion in class and will make writing essays easier.)
Did you know…
…every three-credit course is allowed and encouraged to require a MINIMUM of six hours of work per week OUTSIDE of the time spent in class? This is the national standard. Keep this in mind as you are planning your schedule and thinking about how much effort you are putting into this course.
I HAVE SPOKEN
I HAVE SPOKEN
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