English Composition II

As a continuation from English Composition II, this course focuses on the analysis, synthesis and drawing of conclusions from research and study into external sources. Professional and academic writing requires students to be able to bring in a multitude of facts, points of view, opinions and studies that can inform the writing they’re pulling together, illuminating the message their trying to convey or supporting the position they’re aiming to take. Writing in this course will take students through the entire writing process from brainstorming to draft to final polished essays and revisions. Students will learn the various techniques appropriate to different writing purposes as well as the different tones and styles applicable to particular contexts (professional, academic, clinical, etc.) In understanding how other sources can help to solidify a piece of writing, students will gain the skills they need to conduct basic research into external sources, what kinds of sources are best used for particular purposes and how best to incorporate this information into their writing in the most effective way possible. Finally, students will gain an understanding of the importance of research citation and learn accepted citation methods to ensure they are properly referencing their research throughout their writing.

This course builds on lessons learned in English Composition 1. In addition to reviewing the writing process, students learn research techniques, citation techniques, documentation formats, and critical analysis of written topics. It is strongly suggested that students complete English Composition 1 or have the core competencies addressed in English Composition 1 in order to ensure successful completion of English Composition 2.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Apply research strategies and methods for finding information
• Describe the various information sources available for research
• Apply the steps of the writing process and appropriate research and citation methods to write essays, literary analyses, and research papers
• Critique writing samples in terms of style, substance, and appropriate research and citation methods
• Differentiate between the writing styles required by the different disciplines
• Differentiate between the MLA, APA, and Chicago style guides