English 299

Introduction to Research Writing

• About the Course
• Textbook
• Class Policies and Procedures
• Major Assignments

About the Course

1. write for the academic community, including using print and Internet source evidence and appropriate standard conventions
2. practice "assertive" reading, which includes accurate understanding and elaboration based on previous knowledge and experience
3. emphasize rhetorical goals, including the purpose for writing and its intended audience
4. develop critical thinking skills

Textbook

Writing from Sources, 5th edition, Brenda Spatt, Bedford/St. Martins, 2000.

America Now: Short Readings from Recent Periodicals, 4th edition, Robert Atwan, Bedford/St. Martins, 2001.

Class Policies and Procedures

1. Attendance is required. Students who miss more than 4, 2-day-week or 6, 3-day-week classes may be dropped from the course. Your instructor will provide you with specific guidelines.
2. Students must submit all major assignments to pass the course.
3. By University policy, course grades in English 299 are A, B, C, and NC (No Credit).
4. Once approved, topics of major assignments may not be changed without the instructor's prior approval.
5. The late work policy will be announced by your instructor.
6. All major out-of-class papers must be submitted typed. Word processing is strongly encouraged.
7. In case of a grade appeal, students are responsible for saving all graded work.

Major Assignments

• Summary
• Single-Source Essay (Strategy One)
• Single-Source Essay (Strategy Two)
• Extended Definition Microtheme
• Multi-Source Essay (Synthesis)
• Argument Essay, Research-based* (due during the last week of classes) (This source-based argument essay is also used for assessment of your program in writing and critical thinking. This evaluation is done by independent, trained readers/graders.)

Back to Student FAQs