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ENG-103 - Critical Reading, Writing, and Thinking - Lorrie Wood

Course:Critical Reading, Writing, and Thinking
Professor:Lorrie Wood
Email:lorrie.wood@canyons.edu
Format:
  • Online
Course Length:
  • 16 Week

Introduction

Welcome to English 103! I've been teaching English in various capacities for twenty years, and I am so glad you have decided to join this class. I look forward to getting to know each of you through your writing and discussions. This class will be conducted using an entirely online format. This means that all assignments, discussion, and interaction will take place 100% online. All work will be submitted via Canvas. The first day of class begins Monday, August 22nd.  The class will be available beginning the first day of school. Please keep in mind that even though this is an entirely online, asynchronous class, I do take attendance.  Attending class the first day is mandatory.  Sometime between 8am and 11:00pm please log in to our class and respond to the first discussion board post.  This will simply confirm that you are enrolled in the course and allow me to know if there is room for any potentially waitlisted students.

Course Description

Examines the principles of critical thinking as applied to writing and 
reading arguments on complex issues. Focuses on close textual analysis, 
argumentative writing, and logical reasoning.  Essay topics may include pop 
culture, politics, social issues, or moral/ethical issues.

What to Expect in this Course

Each week students can expect to read applicable articles and debrief/discuss how these relate to critical thinking.  

The textbook, Asking the Right Questions is an engaging activity book with hands-on type questions to engage critical thinking from a more practical point of view.

Discussion boards will be utilized to dialogue between the class.

Types of Assessments

Throughout the course, you will compose three multi-paragraph research-driven essays along with a final research project. Every paper will require you to complete a step-by-step writing process, which will be explained over the first week of class.  Discussion boards will help us work through new writing terms, techniques, and strategies. Likewise, the discussion boards will help reinforce the reading assignments.  In addition to discussion boards, there will be an individual research project.  Students who actively and consistently participate in the course, tend to do well.  Please email me regarding any concerns or questions.  I believe that open communication is a key to learning.

Textbook Information / Link to ZTC Textbook

Course Textbooks – Ebooks should be available for both textbooks. 

Silverman, World is a Text, Updated Compact Edition, 18 with ISBN: 9781554813797

"Browne, Asking the Right Questions, 12th Edition with ISBN: 9780134431994"

Other Relevant Course Information

You will find a detailed list of assignments and their points on the syllabus. Grades will be posted on a weekly basis. Please provide instructor about the same time to grade as is provided for assignment completion.  I am usually very prompt in providing grades.  

I look forward to getting to know each of you and trust that this is going to be a great session!


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

College of the Canyons cares about your emotional and physical health. Learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including free counseling and mental health services available during this time by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center website or by calling them at: 661-362-3259.

The National Suicide Lifeline number is 1-800-273- 8255 (TALK). Please call it if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress - it could save someone's life.

You can also use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. It's free, available 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: 07/31/2022 Sub#: 1430