WR-Writing

Lower Division Collegiate (except where noted)

WR90 (4 credits)
Fundamentals of Composition

Introduces the basic five-paragraph essay form while reinforcing sentence skills and paragraph development. Critical thinking and reading are emphasized. Prepares students for transfer-level coursework and, specifically, for WR115. If a high proficiency is demonstrated with in-class writing and student self-identifies as challenging WR115, there is a process that allows students to meet the outcomes for WR115 and be eligible to enroll in WR121. When taken with RD90, course equivalent to WR91. Course is graded on a pass/no pass basis. Prerequisite: Designated placement score. Course does not transfer.

WR91 (5 credits)
Fundamentals of Academic Literacy

Combines reading and writing requirements in order to accelerate progress and prepare students for transfer-level coursework and, specifically, for WR121. If a student in this course demonstrates a high proficiency with in-class writing and meets the course learning outcomes, the student may be able to register for WR121 (waiving WR115 placement). Each student is required to attend a lab session two hours a week. An embedded tutor will provide additional support during class and lab sessions. Course equivalent to RD90 and WR90, and graded on a pass/no pass basis. Course does not transfer. Prerequisite: Placement into WR90 and RD90. Course does not transfer.

WR110 (2 credits)
Understanding English Grammar

Explores the structures of the English language and applies skills gained to proof and edit college-level writing. Students will be able to make conscious choices of grammatical formats to express themselves clearly and to minimize grammar errors in their own papers. Prerequisites: RD90 and WR90 or WR91 (WR91 substitutes for both RD90 and WR90) or designated placement score.

WR115 (3 credits)
Introduction to Expository Writing

Reviews the basic conventions, purposes, and strategies of college-level writing with an emphasis on in-class writing. Course will survey a variety of rhetorical modes and prepare students for impromptu questions and essays. Prerequisites: RD90 and WR90 or WR91 (WR91 substitutes for both RD90 and WR90) or designated placement score.

WR121 (4 credits)
English Composition I

Covers a range of rhetorical situations and genres of writing, centering on argument. Students learn to read and analyze others’ writing and then respond with their own views, showing an awareness of their purpose and audience. The class culminates in a short argumentative research paper. Prerequisite: WR115 or designated placement score.

WR122 (4 credits)
English Composition II

Focuses on scholarly investigation and the proper use of sources and documentation. Major emphasis is on writing research papers that are acceptable by APA standards. Prerequisite:  WR121 or designated placement score.

WR199 (variable credits)
Special Studies: Writing

Explores special topics in writing, including novel and journal writing as well as discipline-specific discourse conventions and professional preparedness. Prerequisite:  WR115 or designated placement score.

WR227 (4 credits)
Technical Writing

Teaches students to communicate technical information in an accurate, detailed, formal, and functional way. Students will learn to make decisions about the purpose, audience, organization, and design of technical documents and presentations. This course emphasizes a problem-solving approach to technical communication, whether in oral, written, or visual form. The course provides students with the knowledge and opportunity to research and write a professional technical manuscript, analyze workplace situations requiring technical investigation, and deliver an oral presentation using PowerPoint software to an audience. WR227 is offered both in a computer lab classroom and online. Prerequisites: BA131 or CIS120 or documented proficiency and BT114 or WR121 or designated placement score. Recommended prerequisites: Public speaking ability is an asset; and CIS125WW and graphics ability or desktop publishing skills.

WR241 (4 credits)
Imaginative Writing I

Offers students opportunities to express themselves through literary mediums. Students study models of short stories, poetry, personal memoirs, and do original work in each of these genres. Includes analysis and discussion of students’ work. Prerequisite: WR115 or designated placement score.

WR242 (4 credits)
Imaginative Writing II

Offers students opportunities to express themselves through literary mediums. Students study models of short stories, poetry, personal memoirs, and do original work in each of these genres. Includes analysis and discussion of students’ work. Prerequisite: WR241.

WR243 (4 credits)
Imaginative Writing III

Completes the year of imaginative writing, building on WR241 and WR242 and offering students further opportunities to express themselves through literary mediums. Students study models of short stories, poetry, personal memoirs, and do original work in each of these genres. Includes analysis and discussion of students’ work. Prerequisite: WR242.