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English 200 - Introduction to US Latina/Latino Literature - Erin Delaney

Course:Introduction to US Latina/Latino Literature
Professor:Erin Delaney
Email:erin.delaney@canyons.edu
Format:
  • Online
Course Length:
  • 16 Week

Introduction

A woman with pink hair, sunglasses, and a blue shirt smiles with a fountain and the Natural History Museum in the background

Hello Students!

I'm so excited to be teaching English 200: Intro to US Latina/Latino Literature.  This semester is the very first time CoC is offering this course!  Thank you for joining me on this new adventure.

 

English 200 is an online, interactive course where you will read literature by US Latina/Latino authors, starting with the Mexican-American War and moving forward to the present day.  You'll also be learning about the important historical, cultural, and political context that informs the literature.  The course provides important "windows and mirrors" opportunities.  You'll have the chance to learn about people who are both similar to and different from you!  You'll have a window into our characters' lives, and you may also feel like their lives reflect back on you.  

Spanish Language Note:  The works we're reading are either written in English or have been translated to English.  However, many of them will still include words or phrases in Spanish.  It helps to speak some Spanish, but it's not required.  An online translator (like Google Translate) will help you understand any Spanish language words or phrases you may not already know.  

Course Description

Historical Context, such as:

  • The Mexican-American War
  • The Spanish-American War
  • Various waves of immigration
  • Revolutions in Latin America
  • The Farm Worker's Movement

Literary and Cultural Themes, such as:

  • Family Dynamics
  • Immigration
  • Language
  • Memoir

Key Works:

  • The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
  • Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda
  • Dreaming of You by Melissa Lozada-Oliva

What to Expect in this Course

You can expect to read and respond to some amazing literary texts!  You'll deepen your understanding of what American literature is by looking at it through a Latina/Latino lens.

Weekly Work Load:  This is a three unit online class, which means you should plan to spend about 12 hours per week on classwork.  This will include reading the literature as well as completing assignments and participating in discussion boards.

Major Assignments:

  • 2 formal essays that analyze the assigned literature
  • 1 final project that designs your own literary event

Technology Requirements:

  • Regular access to Canvas, including Canvas email.
  • (Recommended) Free online translator, like Google Translate

Types of Assessments

Weekly Assignments:  Readings, discussion boards, and written assignments

Major Assignments:  2 formal essays and 1 final project

Textbook Information

Both books (listed below) are available at the bookstore.  I will also place reserve copies at TLC.  Students can read the books in TLC for free.

  • The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
  • Dreaming of You by Melissa Lozada-Oliva

In addition, we'll be studying Lin-Manuel Miranda's Hamilton.  You can access Hamilton several ways, including:

  • Watching the stage production on Disney Plus (paid subscription required)
  • Listening to the soundtrack on Spotify (free account required)
  • Reading lyrics and watching clips online (free)

Other Relevant Course Information

I am so excited to work with you in Fall!  Please feel free to reach out with any questions you may have about the course.  I can be reached at erin.delaney@canyons.edu.


Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

  • CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
  • CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 06/26/2023 Sub#: 1600