Chaminade University
EN 102, Expository Writing
Fall Evening, Oct. 1 - Dec. 13, 2012

Syllabus

Christine Hansen, Ph.D.

e-mail: christine.hansen@adjunct.chaminade.edu
(emergency outside e-mail: hansenc003@gmail.com)
Cell: (808) 226-6219

Course website: 
yourcompclass.com
CompClass Technical Support:
1-800-936-6899 or techsupport@bfwpub.com
Chaminade e-mail Help Desk: 735-4855

Course Description

Course Description: English 102, Expository Writing, provides instruction and practice in writing short- to medium-length expository research papers and in writing from sources.  The course emphasizes skills required for research writing such as summarizing, paraphrasing, quoting, evaluating, and synthesizing.  The course includes instruction and practice in writing a multi-source research paper of substantial length.

Student Learning Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, a student must demonstrate the following writing and critical thinking competencies:

   1. To demonstrate the correct use of grammar, punctuation, word choice, mechanics,
        and sentence structure in a written text.
   2. To demonstrate the ability to edit a text with grammar, punctuation, word choice,
        mechanics, and sentence structure errors.
   3. To demonstrate paragraph and research paper development in a written text.
         1. To demonstrate thesis sentences
         2. To demonstrate topic sentences.
         3. To demonstrate clear supporting examples for thesis sentence and topic sentences.
         4. To demonstrate logical and clear connections between topic/thesis sentences and supporting   
              examples.
   4. To demonstrate an organized paper.
         1. To demonstrate an effective introductory paragraph.
         2. To demonstrate an effective concluding paragraph.
         3. To demonstrate the use of transitions (internal/within a paragraph and external/ between 
             paragraphs) in a written text.
   5. To demonstrate pre-writing strategies and techniques such as mapping,
            free writing, and listing.
   6. To identify and apply rhetorical writing techniques (narrative, descriptive,
        exposition/illustration, comparison and contrast, cause and effect, definition,  
        persuasion, classification, division).
           1. To demonstrate logical structure utilizing the rhetorical techniques.
   7. To demonstrate the ability to research, draft, revise, and edit a research paper.
   8. To demonstrate the correct use of MLA documentation.
         1. To demonstrate an understanding of the difference between a bibliography and a works cited page.
         2. To demonstrate an understanding of plagiarism.
         3. To demonstrate the ability to cite sources within the body of a text.
   9. (Critical Thinking Skills) To demonstrate the ability to evaluate and synthesize research information.
         1. To demonstrate the ability to evaluate the validity of source information.
         2. To demonstrate the ability to distinguish between reason and belief.
         3. To demonstrate the ability to apply and integrate material from sources.

Instructor Bio

Dr. Christine Hansen is an award-winning writer, with experience in technical writing, journalism, and poetry.  To the best of her knowledge, she wrote the very first newspaper article that ever appeared on Luis and Walter Alvarez' 'asteroid impact' theory of dinosaur extinction.  She received the Norman Meller Award a few years ago from the University of Hawaii, and is a recipient of a California statewide JACC award.  She is a lifetime member of Who’s Who Among Collegiate Faculty, a former member of MENSA, and a past university administrator charged with faculty supervision and academic management. Dr. Hansen worked on a two-year National Science Foundation project to create a machine-human system for historical linguistics.

Dr. Hansen holds a Ph.D. in political science, an M.A.in English, an M.A. in linguistics, a Master of Aeronautical Science with an Emphasis in Space Studies, a B.A. in philosophy, and an A.A. in journalism.

An avid runner, Dr. Hansen has completed three marathons, with a best time of 3:32.  She completed the California Ten race in a time of 67 minutes.  She has two teenage children, and lives with her family in Kailua, Hawaii. She practices meditation and has a strong Christian faith.

Diversity

Chaminade's "Core Beliefs Statement" says, "Students, both traditional and non-traditional, bring a variety of talents, traditions, cultures and abilities. This diversity brings a special opportunity to the Chaminade community, which can then nurture and guide each student to the fullest realization of potential." Consequently, this course encompasses readings that reflect and examine the diversity of our literary, cultural and environmental heritage. Additionally, the course puts special attention on the problems faced by authors seeking to write from unique personal or cultural perspectives to readers who may not share the same perspectives or cultural background.

Texts

This course requires no printed textbook purchase.  However, you must purchase a subscription to CompClass, unless you already have a valid subscription from English 101.  

If you do not yet have a valid CompClass subscription, go to http://courses.bfwpub.com/writersref7e.php and purchase one.

If you already have a valid subscription (subscriptions are good for 365 days),  go to the same initial page, http://courses.bfwpub.com/writersref7e.php and then click on "Need to switch courses" next to the Login box. However, there is a potential problem if you  previously clicked "Remember me on this computer" which may result in your being automatically logged on to your earlier course, so be careful about this.
If that is the case, try logging in to this url:
https://purchase.bfwpub.com/purchase/portal_switch_course/portal_switch_course.php?productId=writersref7e_p

All other required readings are available free, online or through instructor e-mailings.  

If you need help using CompClass, contact 1-800-936-6899 or techsupport@bfwpub.com

Use of Chaminade e-mail
Students are required to have a working Chaminade e-mail and to check it regularly.  It is a university-wide requirement that all course correspondence be done either in the Chaminade e-mail or the course e-mail.   If you do not know how to use your Chaminade e-mail, contact the Chaminade e-mail Help Desk: 735-4855

Requirements (total 1,000 points)

    * Participation, including online discussions: 10 weeks @ 10 points each = 100 points

    * Research papers 1 and  2: 300 each for a total = 600 points

    * Peer review participation and timely posting of drafts @ 50 points each = 100 points

    * Final Exam = 150 points

    * Persuasive Letter = 50 points

Grading Scale

    * ‘A’: Outstanding scholarship and an unusual degree of intellectual initiative. (90-100)
    * ‘B’: Superior work done in a consistent and intellectual manner.  (80-89)
    * ‘C’: Average grade indicating competent grasp of subject matter. (70-79)
    * ‘D’: Inferior work, not satisfactory for fulfillment of prerequisite course work. (60-69)
    * ‘F’: Failed to grasp minimum subject matter; no credit given.
    * A passing grade for this course is a ‘C.’

Grading Rubric for EN 102 Research Papers

Grade	Integration of Sources	Clarity and Rhetoric	Organizational Development	Grammar and Mechanics	
A	Accurate assessment (summary and paraphrase) of source information.  The sources are introduced using a concise summary and the sources are integrated logically and effectively into the paper. The validity of the source information has been tested and documented in the paper.	The goal of the paper is clear.  The language and rhetorical  techniques used in the paper are clear and effective for the audience provided.	The paper displays a clear organizational structure which includes an introduction, thesis, topic sentences, examples, transitions, and a conclusion, and the research clearly supports the thesis.	The paper uses correct MLA documentation and contains few errors in grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.	
B	Same as above, however the summary introduction of the text is accurate but not as concise.
	Rhetorical techniques are applied correctly throughout the paper, but it may not be effective for the audience provided.
	The paper has a clear organizational structure, but further research may be needed for conclusive development.
	The paper may contain several errors in grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.	
C	The summary introduction or the paraphrase of the source may be less than accurate. 
	The rhetorical techniques may present less than a logical application.  Or additional techniques should have been used in the paper.
	The organizational structure is not always clear making it difficult to follow the writers points at all time, or further research is needed for sufficient support..
	The paper contains a few minor documentation errors or numerous errors in grammar and punctuation that do not hinder a general reading.	
D	There is no summary introduction of the texts, and the text is not integrated into the paper.
	Same as above.
	The paper lacks a clear organizational structure (topic sentences and transitions)., or the research does not appear to support the thesis.	The “works cited” page is not in MLA format.	
F	It is unclear what additional texts are being used and for what purpose.
	It is unclear what techniques are being used
	The purpose of the paper/thesis is unclear and/or not support is given.
	No “works cited” page  was included in the paper.	

Academic Honesty and Plagiarism

All material submitted in fulfillment of course requirements must be written by the registered student during the term.

Work written for other courses is unacceptable in this one. Limited execeptions may be considered if approved by the instructor early in the term.

Students are required to consult sources outside the required reading of the course. They are also responsible for clearly presenting their of their sources via in-text documentation and a works cited listing at the end of the paper. Statements of "common knowledge" are generally exempt from this scholarly requirement.

Plagiarism is defined as the presentation of someone else's ideas as your own. Plagiarism in this course will result in a grade of "0" for the assignment and possible failure for the course.

The Chaminade General Catalog states the following with regard to plagiarism:

Plagiarism is the offering of work of another as one's own. Plagiarism is a serious offense and may
include, but is not limited to, the following:

    1. Complete or partial copying directly from a published or unpublished source without proper
    acknowledgment to the author. Minor changes in wording or syntax are not sufficient to avoid
    charges of plagiarism. Proper acknowledgment of the source of a text is always mandatory.

    2. Paraphrasing the work of another without proper author acknowledgment.

    3. Submitting as one's own original work (however freely given or purchased) the original exam,
    research paper, manuscript, report, computer file, or other assignment that has been prepared by
    another individual.

In this course, if the instructor suspects plagiarism, the burden of proof of the originality of the writing lies with the student. Evidence of originality would include copies of early drafts of the writing, research and interview notes, as well as the ability to discuss the themes of the writing with the instructor. Students should consider their instructor's vigilance in such matters a normal part of the academic process and should be prepared to present evidence of originality if requested. In this course, maintaining a research journal is critical in this regard. Additionally, students are strongly advised to save files of early drafts of research papers, along with outlines, research notes and other supporting documentation, as the instructor may at any time require that they be presented.

With regard to the use of tutors, editors, proofreaders, writing coaches, writing groups and other writers' support interfaces, the following policy applies. The use of writing tutors provided through Chaminade University is particularly encouraged; however, the instructor requires that prior notice be given and a full account the tutorial sessions be provided via email to the instructor, including the name and contact information for the tutor, the date, time and duration of the session and a brief summary of the results of the session. Use of non-Chaminade tutoring, editorial, or proofreading services is prohibited unless given prior approval from the instructor. Because this is a writing course designed to nurture, assess and certify the skill level of the individual student, all work submitted must be the original composition of the registered student.

Course Overview 

All due dates are Sunday by 11:59 p.m. of the relevant week, except for discussion replies, which are due on Tuesday by 11:59 p.m.  The only exception is the final week of the term, which is slightly longer (see dates below).  

Peer Review Checklist

	Does the writer make an effort to “hook” the audience and to establish the importance of the topic to a busy reader?

	In the introductory paragraph, did the writer provide a “road map” or “preview” of the main points to be covered in the paper (e.g., a forecasting statement)?

	Does the research paper have a clear thesis which has been suitably narrowed for the length of the paper?  Is it stated in the first paragraph?  Does the writer get to the point quickly, without a lot of preliminary discussion?

	Is the thesis capable of being disproved?

	Does the thesis focus on a single, specific point?

	Does the writer use transitions between paragraphs and make sure each paragraph has a topic sentence?  Is the content of each paragraph relevant to the thesis?  Does the writer provide viable support for the thesis in the body paragraphs, by offering evidence such as facts and statistics, examples, expert opinion, personal experience, discussion of passages in primary texts, or analogy?

	Is the level of language appropriate to a general, well-educated audience?

	Does the writer define any unfamiliar terms after the introductory paragraph, and provide any necessary background information at the same point, to establish the context of the thesis?

	For the research, does each body reference have a proper parenthetical citation in MLA style?  Is there a corresponding end citation in proper MLA style?

	Does the paper contain too much quotation (it should consist of no more than 10% quotes)?

	Are any chosen sources credible?  

	Does the research paper flow smoothly and with a unified voice?
	Is the paper padded, or is the writing powerful and lean?

	Are there grammatical and/or spelling errors?

	Does everything in the paper work toward proving the thesis, or is there digression?

	Is there a suitable conclusion?

Persuasive Letter 
When ready to do the persuasive letter, read the "Logos, Pathos, and Ethos" handout in the last unit of the course.  Then proceed to write a persuasive letter to someone you admire in history, stating persuasively why you believe that individual was a positive influence on history.

The letters should be 3/4 page - 2 pages long.  The letters may be published as a class publication .

The persuasive letter is not due until the end of the term.

COURSE SCHEDULE

Week 1 -- The "architecture" of a research paper: Oct. 1 - 7

•	Objectives for this unit of the course
o	Become familiar with the online learning environment
o	Log into CompClass, go to Modules, and read and complete Module One
o	Begin to develop research materials of assigned readings
o	Review ideas about topic, thesis, paragraph structure, hooks, forecasting statements, conclusions, etc.
o	Read a sample comparison-contrast research paper
o	Post a personal introduction in the Introductions forum of the Discussion Board
o	Post a primary post and two reply posts for Discussion One
o	Take the diagnostic quizzes listed at the bottom of Module One
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussion and replies
•	Begin planning research paper #1

Week 2 -- Research in MLA style: MLA in-text citations: Oct. 9 - 14

•	Objectives for this unit
o	Develop an overview of the research process
o	Gain experience using correct MLA in-text citations
o	Gain experience using a university research library
o	Read and complete Module Two
o	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions and replies: Create annotated bibliography 
Note: Oct. 8 is a holiday (Discoverers' Day)

Week 3 -- Documentation: Oct. 15 - 21

•	Objectives for this unit
o	Learn about various modes of documenting papers
o	Learn to distinguish between good and bad internet sources
o	Read and complete Module Three
o	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions and replies
•	Research paper One Peer Review (post draft and complete peer review) - draft due

Week 4 -- Online Writing and Research:  Oct. 22 - 28

•	Objectives for this unit
o	Use peer review comments to complete final draft of Research paper One
o	Continue reading and developing ideas 
o	Read and complete Module Four
o	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions and replies
•	Hand in final draft of Research paper One

Week 5 -- From Research Questions to Research Problems: Oct. 29 - Nov. 4

•	Objectives for this unit
o	Begin work on Research paper Two
o	Identify five additional credible sources to add to your research paper
o	Read and complete Module Five
o	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions and replies: Post annotated bibliography to discussion board

Week 6 -- From Research Problems to Research Sources: Nov. 5 - Nov. 11

•	Objectives for this unit
o	Continue work on Research paper Two
o	Begin adding five additional credible sources to add to your research paper 
o	Read and complete Module Six
o	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions and replies

Week 7 -- Making Claims and Presenting Support (Argumentation): Nov. 13 - Nov. 18

•	Objectives
o	Study basic concepts of argumentation
o	Continue reading and discussion of course theme
o	Drafting, peer review and revision
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions and replies
•	Read and complete Module Seven
•	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Research paper Two Peer Review (post draft and complete peer review) - draft due

Note: Nov. 12 is a holiday (Veterans'  Day)

Weeks 8 -- Revising and Editing: Nov. 19 - Nov. 25

•	Objectives
o	Revise and edit research paper 
•	Reading assignments
•	Read and complete Module Eight
•	Online Discussions and replies
•	Read and complete Module Eight
•	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference

Note: Nov. 22 and 23 are holidays (Thanksgiving Recess)

Week 9 -- Nurturing a Community of Inquiry: Nov. 26 - Dec. 2

•	Objectives
o	Use peer review comments to complete final draft of Research paper Two
•	Reading assignments
•	Online Discussions.
•	Read and complete Module Nine
•	Study the assigned parts of A Writer's Reference
•	Hand in final version of Research paper Two 

Week 10 -- Final Exam: Dec. 3 - Dec. 9

•	Objectives
o	General Review
o	Submit Final Research Paper
o	Final Exam due Dec. 8 for students on Oahu or Dec. 9 for ProctorU 
•	Reading assignments

Final Exams: Three Ways

Arrangements for taking the exam must be made in advance of the exam date in one of the following three modes.  You should make appropriate plans early in the term.

 Method  1. Students who are on O'ahu should take the exam at one of Chaminade's O'ahu locations by making reservations for exam seats through the student's advisor.  The tentative date for the exam is Sat., Dec. 8

Method 2.   Students who are not on O'ahu must make arrangements by contacting Donna Yoshimura <dyoshi@chaminade.edu> for assistance in locating a proctor. Once a proctor has been secured, students must also send name and contact information (email and phone) for the proctor to their instructor for informational purposes.

Method  3. Another option for taking the exam is via ProctorU <http://www.proctoru.com> or at 205-870-8122. For more information, visit the ProctorU website and read the handout linked from the course web site. There is a fee of $22.50 for this service. Note that you must have a webcam and microphone connected to your computer. Also be sure to notify your instructor immediately if you are planning to use this service.  ProctorU will provide a password to take the exam in CompClass, but you must be sure to save any submitted exam files as Rich Text Format (.rtf).   Be aware that ProctorU test appointments need to be made at least four days in advance. Reservations made within four days of your exam are subject to a $5 late reservation fee. Late registrations are subject to availability and same day appointments cannot be made online. To make an appointment, simply create an account at http://go.proctoru.com, log in, click on the “new exam” link and select the exam, date, and time you desire. You will receive a confirmation email of your reservations at the email address that you provided to ProctorU.