English 201A: English Composition--Fall 2023
By the end of this syllabus, ask yourself what the three quotes have in common and what they tell you about this class you plan to take.
Welcome to English 201A!
Quote 1: “It's all knowing what to start with. If you start in the right place and follow all the steps, you will get to the right end.” Elizabeth Moon, American science fiction writer
Instructor: Alyssa Emerson
Contact Information
How can I reach my instructor? Instructor Contact Expectations
- Ask away! Before, during, and after class you can ask questions about the class and assignments. Please do not hesitate to reach out to get the information you need.
- The Q & A Discussion Forum—This discussion forum in Canvas enables everyone to see your question, and if someone knows the answer, they can help you.
- Please note that using your Canvas Inbox email is the best and fastest way to reach me outside of class.
- I will generally respond to emails within 24 hours. During those times in the semester when things are really busy, the turnaround time may be 48 hours.
- I am generally online Monday through Friday multiple times a day 9am-5pm, and usually offline from 5pm – 9 am. I am not likely to respond to emails or discussion posts when in class, when offline, on the weekends, or on holidays but will if available.
What is English 201A? Course Description
English 201A provides a study of and practice in the use of language and writing of argumentative/analytical essays and research papers.
What skills will I have at the end of this semester?
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
Upon completing English 201A successfully, students will be able to
- Write a fair and persuasive argument that takes a clear position while incorporating differing viewpoints;
- Write an essay that is effectively and clearly organized;
- Find necessary information, assess its value, and use it in a research paper;
- Integrate and document sources correctly, clearly, and ethically; and
- Write clear, grammatical sentences with few errors.
This class requires weekly reading. We will be completing homework assignments, class discussions, and online forums based on weekly reading assignments. Therefore, you will need the textbook right away. The textbook may be purchased reliably through the Cuesta College Official BookstoreLinks to an external site., but you may rent or purchase a new or used copy through other sites.
- Axelrod, Rise B. and Charles R. Cooper. The Concise St. Martin’s Guide to Writing, 9th edition (I will refer to this book as Concise Guide.)
- All other course materials are accessible through our Canvas CMS
How much time will this class require? Student Expectations
- This is a face-to-face class that meets 4 hours a week. In addition to attending class, you will be assigned an average of 4-8 hours of homework per week.
- This class meets face to face but will use many features of Canvas; most coursework (drafts, essays, quizzes, presentations) is submitted online through Canvas.
- An instructor may drop a student based on the attendance policy or for non-participation. Non-participation in this class constitutes a 50% or less completion of work or consistent failure to participate in class activities, submit assignments, or complete assigned coursework.
Creating a Positive, Equitable, Inclusive Learning Environment through Personal Classroom Conduct and Netiquette
Together, we create our own class dynamic, and this space is one that should support and encourage a positive learning experience. We should not dismiss those behaviors that impede an effective learning environment. To ensure a comfortable and positive learning environment, let’s agree to be respectful of each other. This includes making a thoughtful, courteous, and productive contribution to discussions and exchanges even when we express an opposing viewpoint. Also, please note that class discussion and reading material may address controversial issues and may include references to adult themes and language. Lastly, if discriminatory comments or language become part of the discussion, we will work to address and resolve this with the aim of supporting our diversity while maintaining an inclusive, supportive community of learners.
Netiquette for Online Participation
The following rules apply to all written work in this class:
- Use respectful and appropriate language in your forum discussions.
- Please do not use texting language, i.e. LOL.
- Emoticons are acceptable ways to show emotion.
- Avoid CAPS as they come across like YOU'RE SCREAMING.
- You are expected to read all forum posts.
- You are to respond to the appropriate number of posts for each forum.
- All messages are public, so be careful and courteous when you post.
- Make your posts thorough and your replies as well.
- Complete sentences and thoughts are mandatory for forum posts; be sure to proofread before posting.
- Use a person's name when you reply to their post.
- Use mycuesta.edu email for private communication.
English Division Cell Phone Usage Policy
If a cell phone, laptop, or another electronic device is required during a class session due to extenuating circumstances, it is the responsibility of the student to request use of this device with the instructor in advance of the class session. Otherwise, unless directed or permitted by an instructor, cell phone use in class is prohibited, and cell phones must not be visible to the student, their classmates, or the instructor. Students should silence or turn off their cell phones while class is in session. A verbal warning may be issued if a student is on his/her phone during class time. Following a warning, a student may be dismissed from class for the day, and further action may be taken at the instructor’s discretion, such as a student misconduct report being sent to the office of the Vice President of Student Services.
Punctuality and Preparedness
These qualities show our commitment to our success as well as our consideration of each other. When people arrive late, they interrupt class, distract from class activity, and negatively impact the class dynamic. Consistent late arrival will factor into absences.
Class Discussion & Online Forum Requirements
- You will complete, on average, 1-2 class discussions a week. We will complete in-class and online discussions. Discussions are a vital component of the class as they build our learning community, improve comprehension, and foster creativity.
- Discussion forums will be used to discuss the reading, share rough drafts, post presentations, and offer feedback on a variety of class assignments.
- In most online discussion assignments, you must first post a response to the writing prompt. Then you must reply to typically at least two peers. The best advice: Post early and often.
- Refer to Netiquette Policy above.
What if I get sick, sleep in, miss my bus, leave for a vacation, or just want of a day off?
Attendance
Consider yourself given a bank account with 8 hours of leave time. We would likely lose our job if we did not show up for work. The same applies in a college class; students with excessive absences may be dropped from the course. Students absent the first day of class may be dropped.
If you are absent, you are expected to follow along with the course content published in Canvas. You will still miss content covered in class, but Canvas will allow you to have a general idea of what lectures and in-class activities cover and enable you to complete assignments.
English Division Standard Attendance Policy in Face-to-Face Courses
Attendance is required and directly influences students’ success in every English course. In a 4-unit course, students may not miss more than 8 hours total for a full-length semester course; for a 3-unit course, students may not miss more than 6 hours. Instructors will prorate hours accordingly for those courses that meet fewer weeks than a full-length semester course. Students who are not in attendance on the first day of instruction may be dropped unless they notify the instructor in advance of the first class meeting. Students with three consecutive absences or more will be dropped from the course unless the instructor is contacted by the student before or during this period of absences. It is the student’s responsibility to communicate with the instructor regarding missed classes. It is also the student’s responsibility to drop the course before the drop deadline.
I couldn’t make it to class. How do I find out what I missed?
First priority: return prepared. First, check Canvas and review the content for the week. You can also email your peers to get more explanation about what you missed. You can email peers through Canvas in the navigation menu under People. There could be a new homework assignment due the day you return. If you miss class, work was likely collected and completed on that day. Chances are you lost points on that day, and due dates aren’t postponed for absent students. However, in many cases late work is accepted and can receive credit but will incur a minor penalty. Typically, instructors do not repeat the class material for every absent student, so you should not email an instructor and ask what you missed.
Quote 2: "Success isn't always about greatness. It's about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come." Dwayne Johnson, American actor
Plan for Success: College Support Services
Success rarely just happens. It is usually the result of planning and perseverance. While we may not expect it right now, there may come a time when we need some extra help. There are many resources students can utilize to maximize the likelihood of success in this class and other classes. These are just some of my recommendations:
- Student Tutors—Cuesta offers free tutoring! Visit the Writing CenterLinks to an external site. for assistance on your writing assignments. There are also student tutors available in most other subjects through the Student Success CenterLinks to an external site.. I recommend the Writing Center for input and feedback on every writing assignment. Utilizing tutoring services is an integral part of the writing process as it provides one-on-one instructional support. You are not on your own—they want to help you! Tutorial services can be found at the following link: Tutorial ServicesLinks to an external site.
- The Library—For a list and reference to library services, including learning research and assistance, please follow the link: Library and Learning ResourcesLinks to an external site.
- Basic Computer Skills—You will use word processing programs to complete quizzes, drafts, and essays. You will also have presentation assignments that require a basic knowledge of PowerPoint or Google Slides. If you believe this will present a challenge for you, now is the perfect time to check out tutorials offered by each of these resources.
- Veterans ServicesLinks to an external site. : Cuesta offers resources and community for those who have served. If you are a veteran, connect with this supportive community and learn about the resources available.
- Food ResourcesLinks to an external site.--If you are food insecure or know a student who is, the Cuesta Cougar Food Pantry can be a lifesaver.
- Student Health ServicesLinks to an external site.--Cuesta offers physical and mental health services, including free therapy sessions for students, wellness resources, referrals and much more.
- Basic Needs CenterLinks to an external site.--Cuesta works to connect you with and provide vital essential resources, such as transportation, housing, financial aid, mental wellness, and healthcare.
Disabled Students Programs and Services
- If you have a physical, mental, or learning disability that requires any special accommodation, please contact Disabled Student Programs and ServicesLinks to an external site. as soon as possible to ensure that you receive the accommodations in a timely manner. I will be happy to discuss and work with you on your need for accommodations. If you have previously qualified for these services, such as an IEP in high school, or if you believe you have some type of disability, contact them. Even if you believe you can complete your coursework without their assistance, it is vital that you connect with them at the beginning of the semester so that you are informed about what they offer. Think of it as insurance—you may not need their help, but if you do, it will be there.
Grading Policy and Assignment Expectations
- Timeline for assignment feedback: All work will receive feedback within 7-10 days.
- Submission Policy: Each assignment includes instructions on the acceptable submission form. (ex: doc, pdf, text box)
- This is a general breakdown of grades. Point values for some categories may change slightly.
Assignments & Point Values
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Assignments & Point Values
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|
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Essays
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350
|
|
Discussions (6 total @ ~20-40pts. ea.)
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200
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Reading Comprehension Quizzes
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100
|
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Essay Prep Activities and Exercises
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150
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Grammar Review Exercises
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100
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Library Information Literacy Assignment (4 modules)
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100
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Total Points
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1000
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Final Grade Scale: This class uses a plus or minus (+/-) grading scheme.
A=93%-100%, A-=90-92%,
B+=87%-89%, B=83%-86%, B-=80%-82%
C+=77%-79%, C=73%-76%
Note: Because 201A is a prerequisite class, a student cannot receive a C- grade. A student needs a 73% or better to pass the class.
D+=67%-72%, D=63%-66%, D-=60%-62%
F=0-59%
“What’s my grade?”: You can find out your current grade in Canvas.
Assignments
Essays
- Writing Process—Each essay will include preparatory reading assignments, writing exercises, and class discussions. The Film Evaluation Essay and Research Paper will also require a presentation. Be certain to complete all the steps to ensure success.
- Final Drafts—The essays must conform to the standard format covered in class using MLA 8th or 9th editions.
- Late Essays—In addition to any other standard deductions from the rubric,
- A late Film Evaluation Essay will receive a 10% deduction and be accepted up to one week late.
- The Research Paper is due Tuesday, 12/5, @ the beginning of class and will receive credit until the beginning of our final class meeting for a 10% late deduction.
- Word-Minimum—If an essay does not meet the required word-minimum, there is a 20% deduction. All other standard deductions will also apply.
Discussions, Essay Prep Exercises, and Other Class Work
You will receive a variety of assignments over the course of the semester. All are designed to encourage class participation, ensure you have completed the assigned reading, and build competency in the 5 Standard Learning Outcomes for English 201A. Writing assignments and discussions promote regular participation and preparedness.
Presentations
In addition to the Film Evaluation Essay and Research Paper, you will complete a presentation in Google Slides (or the equivalent) that will showcase your topic, discoveries, and experience during the writing process, and you will post it in a discussion forum. You will receive a detailed explanation of these assignments.
Grammar Review
Weekly exercises follow lessons on a variety of basic concepts and rules pertaining to grammar and punctuation. You will typically have two opportunities to complete each exercise for the highest grade.
Library Information Literacy Assignment
All English 201A students are required to complete the online modules and assignments, and it must count for 10% of a student's grade. These activities are designed to help you improve your ability to locate, research, evaluate, select, and cite sources.
Policy on Late Work
- Essays: See the policy above on late essays.
- Discussions: These communication forums are time-sensitive, but in most cases, late posts and replies will receive credit with a 10% deduction up to one week late. See each discussion assignment for specific due dates/times.
- Reading Analyses, Grammar Exercises, and Other Assignments: Accepted up to one week late and receive a 10% deduction.
- Comprehension Checks: These homework assignments are to be completed before returning to class to discuss the reading; therefore, they will not be accepted late.
- No credit will be given to work after our final class meeting.
Withdrawals
If you decide you do not want to complete the course, you need to drop the course. It is the responsibility of the student to withdraw from or drop a class. It is not the responsibility of the instructor to drop any student. Students may drop or withdraw from a course before November 5th and receive a "W" for withdrawal symbol on their academic record. The Cuesta College FAQs page on WithdrawalsLinks to an external site. is helpful.
An instructor may drop a student based on the attendance policy or for non-participation. Non-participation in this class constitutes a 50% or less completion of work or consistent failure to participate in class activities, submit assignments, or complete assigned coursework.
Help and Technical Support
- For issues related to accessing Cuesta's LMS Site or other technical issues, students may email: support@my.cuesta.edu
- If the Cuesta server goes down or the power is out, the campus LMS will also be down and you will not be able to access your online course. When this happens, you should email your instructor from your student email (not from within the LMS) for more information or instructions.
- For all other issues related to the course or course content, try the Q & A Forum in Discussions.
- If you have an individual circumstance or situation, please email me.
Course and College Policies
Authentication policy: Authenticating student identity will be conducted by using the Learning Management System (LMS), Canvas. Canvas requires each student to log into the program using a secure login and password to access.
Regular Effective Contact policy: Regular and Effective Instructor Contact will be met through weekly meetings, instructor initiated threaded discussion forums; regular announcements to students, timely and effective feedback on student assignments, email, and and Zoom appointments.
Academic Honesty Policy
This is serious stuff! If we use another person’s work, we must give that individual credit. If a student willingly takes credit for someone else’s words or ideas, or if he/she is discovered cheating in any way, the student will receive a zero on the assignment and a Student Incident Report will be filed with the College Vice-President or Executive Dean. If a student uses AI language processing chatbots instead of generating their own work, the student will receive a zero on the assignment. If a student's Similarity Report through Turnitin is over 23% or if the AI report indicates AI was likely used, the assignment will not receive any credit. Basically, I want to see your work; I want to help you become an even stronger writer.
Course Calendar
There is a link to the Course Calendar on the course site. This includes all assignments and due dates as they become posted and available.
Disclaimer
I reserve the right to change the syllabus and/or schedule, as the needs of the class deem necessary. If such a need arises, I will inform you of any changes.
Quote 3: "A scholar is committed to building on knowledge that others have gathered, correcting it, confirming it, enlarging it." Parker J. Palmer, American educator, activist
Welcome to English 201A! I suspect this will be another interesting and eventful semester. I am glad that you have decided to join our class!
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