English 103 - Critical Reading, Writing, and Thinking - Erin Delaney
| Course: | Critical Reading, Writing, and Thinking |
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| Professor: | Erin Delaney |
| Email: | erin.delaney@canyons.edu |
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Introduction
Welcome to English 103: Critical Reading, Writing, and Thinking! This course is all about arguments--both recognizing and critiquing the arguments around us AND crafting our own logical, persuasive arguments. I love working with students in this course because it helps prepare them for real-world challenges like evaluating information (can I believe this ad?), making choices (should I vote for this proposition?), and pitching your own ideas (what should we do about this problem?).
When working with students, I think of myself as a coach. I want to see you do well, and I will help you achieve your goals! Like a coach, I'll provide exercises, feedback, and strategies to make your reading, writing, and critical thinking skills even stronger. I look forward to working with you!
Course Description
For our English 103 class, we will use Disney and its cultural impact to explore various critical thinking challenges. Disney's media empire has influenced people across the globe; their outreach starts young and often remains compelling throughout an individual's life. This is especially true now that Disney has acquired franchises like Marvel and Star Wars, which appeal to adults and children alike. In addition, Disney engages in world (and even universe) building--it crafts lands, planets, and far-off galaxies that fans want to immerse themselves in. Given the incredible reach and influence of a company like Disney, it is likely that the company has impacted you in one way or another (even if you're not a fan!). This semester, you'll have the chance to critically consider Disney's impact on you and the rest of the world. As Basil, the Great Mouse Detective says, "There's always a chance, Doctor, as long as one can think.”
What to Expect in this Course
In this course, you can expect a welcoming and supportive environment. We'll work together to explore challenging and sometimes controversial material. Although the material may be difficult at times, I will support you and answer any questions you may have. Good learning can happen through a bit of productive discomfort and lots of conversation!
We'll have assignments due on both Tuesdays and Thursdays. Be sure to complete any assigned readings/videos before submitting your assignments on Tuesday. You should plan to spend between 9-12 hours a week for each three unit class you take (including this one).
We'll be completing the course entirely through Canvas, and there are no required Zoom meetings.
Types of Assessments
Our main assignments for the course are three essays. In order to construct the essays, you'll complete drafts, peer reviews, and other assignments. In addition, you'll have assignments that ask you to apply the critical thinking concepts you're learning over the course of the semester.
Textbook Information
The textbook is From Critical Thinking to Argument: A Portable Guide, 6th Ed., by Sylvan Barnet, Hugo Bedau, and John O’Hara, ISBN 9781319194437 (ebook available)
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: 05/26/2022 Sub#: 59