Assessment of Academic Achievement
All assessment of student writing is based on the above course outcomes and is left to the discretion of the individual instructor. Assessment should focus on student development of academic reading, writing, and research skills, and should involve conversation with students.
General Course Requirements and Recommendations
Requirements
Students will read three to six full-length works, which can include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, plays, etc.
Students must produce several essays, including at least one graded in-class writing assignment.
Students will receive instruction in research skills including search strategies, evaluation and synthesis of sources, and ethical documentation practices.
Students must produce a documented research essay (suggested length: five to eight pages) demonstrating the above skills, documented in either MLA or APA style, and worth a significant portion of the final course grade.
Recommendations
Instructors are highly encouraged to
choose course texts that invite students into meaningful reading experiences and will expand their potential as college writers.
provide supportive feedback through activities such as workshops, conferences, revision practices, and portfolios;
equip students for navigating college culture;
welcome and support the diverse identities, backgrounds, and academic experience of our students as essential foundations for college community;
provide information to students about academic success resources on campus, such as the Writing Center, Learning Lab, and Assisted Learning Services; and
visit Eshleman Library for research instruction.