Course goals and learning outcomes support the Foundational Component Areas defined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Course goals are linked to the respective Core Curriculum Competencies: Critical Thinking Skills, Communication Skills, Personal Responsibility, and Teamwork. Specific competencies are identified in designated course goals and learning outcomes.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

Demonstrate knowledge of individual and collaborative research processes by
1. identifying research topics appropriate to the assignment;
2. locating appropriate reference materials, which could include literary criticism, from a variety of media;
3. evaluating research materials for bias and authority.
Develop ideas and synthesize primary and secondary sources within focused academic arguments, including one or more research-based essays by
1. distinguishing between primary and secondary source materials;
2. synthesizing information from a variety of reference materials;
3. employing relevant material appropriately in support of an argument, whether through summary, paraphrase, or quotation.
Analyze, interpret, and evaluate a variety of texts for the ethical and logical uses of evidence by
1. demonstrating an understanding of appropriate literary works, including genres such as short fiction, poetry, and drama;
2. identifying literary and rhetorical elements, including plot and structure, viewpoint, characterization, style, setting, and atmosphere;
3. analyzing use of style and literary devices such as figurative language, rhythm, and language patterns;
4. responding to literature with rational judgments supported by evidence;
5. evaluating critical analyses of texts;
6. employing standard critical approaches and terminology.
Write in a style that clearly communicates meaning, builds credibility, and inspires belief or action by
1. following standard essay composition procedures;
2. applying logical organization and support;
3. incorporating primary and secondary research to support argument;
4. using effective rhetorical strategies appropriate to defined audience and purpose.
Apply the conventions of style manuals for specific academic disciplines (e.g., APA, CMS, MLA, etc.) by
1. using MLA style for primary and secondary source documentation and citation;
2. using MLA style for manuscript preparation.
Critical Thinking Skills: Demonstrate critical thinking skills by
1. differentiating between broad, general topics and narrow, focused topics;
2. identifying purpose or rhetorical occasion;
3. reading and responding to course materials in a way that demonstrates ability to apply, analyze, evaluate, and synthesize material effectively;
4. discerning the validity, value, and strengths and weaknesses of information, assessments, statements, or evidence provided, and providing a solid, evidence-based explanation of such a critique.
Communication Skills: Demonstrate communication skills by
1. selecting appropriate topics for essays;
2. utilizing various technologies as they relate to competent communication;
3. demonstrating ability to analyze audience and writing appropriately for that audience;
4. using appropriate diction, including precise word choice and varied vocabulary.
Personal Responsibility: Demonstrate personal responsibility by
1. demonstrating effective listening skills when evaluating and analyzing information in the classroom setting;
2. demonstrating the ability to consider differing points of view;
3. demonstrating audience sensitivity in regard to scope, content, language level, tone, and word choice.
Teamwork: Demonstrate teamwork by
1. applying small group communication skills including problem solving, group roles, leadership styles, and cohesiveness;
2. working effectively with others to support a shared purpose or goal.

ENGL 1302

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ENGL 1302 - Composition II