English 1205.1WW/WX Introduction to Literature
(3 credit hours)
with Prof. David R. Wilson
We tell ourselves stories to in order live. Joan Didion
We live in a world ruled by fictions of every kind. J.G. Ballard
The answers you get from literature depend on the questions you ask. Margaret Atwood
Texts are lazy machineries that ask us to do part of their work for them. Umberto Eco
Hours: Online & on Tues 9:30 am - 11:30 am Office: MM219 Email: david.wilson@smu.ca
Twitter: DavidRWilson1@twitter.com (Please use Blackboard email for all 1205 business)
COURSE DESCRIPTION & OBSERVATIONS:
This
course introduces students to works of literature in English representing a
variety of historical and cultural contexts. It develops the student's ability
to interpret written texts and to write about them in an informed and organized
manner.
This online version of English Literature is designed to introduce you to several genres--poetry, drama, essay, short fiction, and novel (as well as film, music, and paintings). It will explore the links between texts, writers, cultures, times, and audiences. We will discover why we care about stories, why we need them, and what they do to us. We'll learn how ideas circulate, evolve, and repeat. Our goal is to become more critically aware of how narratives work, as well to enjoy reading and discussing works of art.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
•
to introduce the major genres
of fiction, poetry, and drama;
•
to introduce students to
basic literary devices and terminology;
•
to develop the tools of
argumentation and improve persuasive thinking through written essays;
•
to foster critical thinking;
•
to cover a selection of
historical periods and literary traditions.
REQUIRED TEXTS and MODULE READINGS:
Course readings are available on Blackboard, but you should purchase an ebook or pbook for the novel and play. (See each module for a list of readings). We'll be working in 6 modules this term:
I. MONSTERS AND HEROES (JAN 13 - 24 )
II. LOVERS AND FIGHTERS (Jan 27 - FEB 12)
III. NOVEL: THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE (FEB 24 - MARCH 7)
IV. PLAY: TWELFTH NIGHT (MARCH 10 - MARCH 21)
V. POEMS AND PAINTINGS (MARCH 24 - APRIL 3)
EVALUATION:
Practice Quizzes (1% each):
Real Quizzes (1% each):
Midterm: (20%) covers Modules I and II, Feb 12.
Module Test (10%):
Essay Assignment (15%): Compare & Contrast essay
Final Exam (30%):
NOTE: Check the 1205 calendar in Blackboard for due dates.
Practice quizzes are open 4 days during a module. Real quizzes are open 1 day ( 7 am - 11 pm).
Mod tests are open 1 day (Fri 7 am - 11 pm). The Midterm opens on Fri, Feb 12 (7 am - 11 pm). The exam opens 1 day in April for 2 hours.
Postings to the public discussion board must be completed within the timeframe of that module to be considered for any participation points.
Students will be required to make a minimum of 15 original postings over the course of the term.
Half a point is awarded for each posting. The other 7.5 points depends on the effort and quality put into each posting.
The Collaborate sessions take place on Thursday from 6 pm - 8 pm.
DISBILITY SERVICES
Any students with special needs are urged to contact the Atlantic Centre on campus. Proper documentation must be submitted before any accommodations will be assigned.
POLICIES
The following guidelines help me craft the best learning environment and build a
foundation for a respectful and positive experience in the course. If you have
any questions or concerns about these standards, then please feel free to
discuss the matter with me.
Besides attending class by logging on regularly, participation includes
intelligent contributions to our discussions, completing assignments on time,
and performing well on quizzes. Your participation mark is based on the quality
and quantity of your contributions over the term. More than anything else,
participating in class shows that you’re keeping up with the readings and
engaging the course material.
Rewrites are not considered i
Plagiarism and cheating will not be tolerated, and university regulations on them will be strongly enforced. Please read the SMU calendar (especially pages 19-42) for the complete rules and penalties regarding these academic offenses. If you are unsure about how to avoid them, then please consult with me, visit the Writing Centre, or ask a librarian.
Late work is penalized 1 full letter grade for every day it is overdue (late is
defined as when the assignment box shuts). In cases of proven emergencies
(doctor’s note for illness), the instructor may reconsider this policy at his
discretion. Extensions may be granted, but only if you contact me at least 24
hours in advance of the due date and have a legitimate reason.
This is an English course, so correct use of language (standard written English)
is one of the criteria included in the evaluation of all assignments. If you
need help honing your writing skills please visit the Writing Resource Center
located in the Burke building, log on to WHO online, or make an appointment with
me to go over your composition.