Course Objectives

Both writers and readers can benefit from investigating and analyzing a range of genres and rhetorical situations. The categories of texts known as genres include works of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction that have similar traits. Understanding the conventions and expectations specific to each genre can aid writers in creating texts that are appropriate for their intended audience and purpose. Through the various articles we have read this year, we have observed this objective being used. For instance, we read the article “Should Writers Use Their Own English?” by Vershawn Ashante Young. We also read articles about college students participating in activism.

The context in which a text is created and received is referred to as a rhetorical situation. This includes the text’s goal, the readers it is meant for, and any limitations or opportunities that may be available. Understanding rhetorical situations can guide writers in selecting the best methods and approaches for expressing their ideas. Reading and writing exercises are one way to investigate and evaluate rhetorical situations. Through the exercises we would complete from the book, we improved this skill. In both our rhetorical analysis paper and our inquiry paper, we also examined rhetorical devices.

Creating reading, drafting, collaboration, revision, and editing strategies can aid writers in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of their writing process. Annotating as I read was one of the methods I employed. This is what we did for the MLK speech. It’s a good idea to summarize and paraphrase your arguments. To better understand and remember the text’s main ideas, I’ve succinctly rephrased them. For the reading from the book on rhetorical devices, I did this. Starting with an outline is one of the draft strategies. To assist with idea organization and draft structure, create an outline. For the important papers we wrote this semester, I did this. Working with a writing partner is one of the collaboration strategies. To receive feedback on our ideas and writing for our peer review, we had to present our work to a writing partner. By utilizing these techniques, I as a writer can create a writing process that is more effective and efficient and enables me to produce high-quality work.

Finding and analyzing research sources is a crucial skill for writers because it enables them to find trustworthy data to back up their claims and concepts. It’s crucial to find sources in the library’s databases or archives. We examined student activism using our library’s archives and database. We contrasted our school’s student activism with the examples we had read about. For the research paper, I had to conduct research. I cited a variety of sources to back up my assertion. Writers can make sure they are using trustworthy and accurate information to support their arguments and ideas by carefully evaluating their research sources.

I don’t believe I successfully applied critical analysis. Because I didn’t elaborate on my points in enough detail, my analysis skills were lacking. This was evident in the research paper I wrote. Analysis was far more necessary than it had been. I also didn’t meet the citation requirements. I should’ve included it in my inquiry paper, but I lacked data.