Thursday, September 30, 2010

GE117 Week Three: Topic Sentences & Paragraph Contstruction

Writing is composed of paragraphs. They are the building blocks of good writing. Every well-crafted paragraph has a topic sentence. Topic sentences are like "baby thesis statements." They set the topic and guiding theme for each paragraph. They also support an essay's overall thesis statement. Remember our thesis statement equation: Thesis Statement = Topic + Stance.

Here is a stellar PowerPoint on topic sentences and paragraph construction:




Today's killer quote is brought to you by Lloyd Christmas: "Hey guys. Woah, Big Gulps, huh? All right! Well, see ya later."

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

GE117 Week Two: Tone and Audience

Welcome back! How was your first week? Still getting used to a new quarter? It usually takes a week or two to adjust your schedule. Today we'll discuss Tone and Audience consideration as it applies to the writing process. When you tailor your written content to the audience's expectations, your chances of successful communication increase.

For your convenience, below is a copy of today's lecture slides:




Today's killer quote is brought to you by H.L. Mencken:
"If, after I depart this vale, you ever remember me and have thought to please my ghost, forgive some sinner and wink your eye at some homely girl"

Saturday, September 4, 2010

GE117 Week One

Today we’ll review the syllabus, introduce ourselves, read some Sherman Alexie, and enjoy a lecture. Today’s lecture features an exciting discussion on the basic steps of the writing process. We’ll also have one or two in-class writing exercises.

Additional thoughts: This is the beginning of a new quarter. You’ll work hard and learn a lot in this class. I know some of you may have anxieties about English and writing. Don’t worry. I understand that English isn’t everyone’s favorite subject. But it is important. Everyone needs to have the skills to articulate themselves effectively, especially in the workplace.

Tips to succeed in this class: Attend class, complete the homework, avoid plagiarism, and talk to me when you are struggling.

Here’s a copy of today’s PowerPoint presentation and assigned homework:


Additional documents of interest:

Course reading and homework schedule:






Today's in-class reading:



Assigned reading (there will be a quiz on this next week):



Today's killer quote is brought to you by Fire Marshall Bill:
"Let's just say for the sake of argument that the earth is being occupied by strange, crab like creatures from another planet. One of them needs a light; you whip out your Zippo, you flick your wick, somebody says, 'LOOK! It’s Yoko Ono on a moped,' and BOOM! You're off to the races!"