TECHNICAL WRITING

This course is designed to familiarize students with the genre of English writing that includes technical reports, proposals (for grants or research projects), commercial or other industry-related, specialized documents. This genre primarily uses a (typically neutral) fact-driven, communication-oriented style of writing, unlike the argumentative essay with which students are more familiar. Technical writing will be approached through a "see & experiment"h method: a small research project may be undertaken during the course, in order to incorporate firsthand practice planning and composing each type of document. It is hoped that, upon completion of the course, students are familiar with and competent in undertaking these tasks independently. This course will be offered as an optional credit course for sophomores (or higher) students in all majors.

- Compose effective professional documents - Build effective proofreading skills - Apply audience analysis - Increase communicative competence - Expand context-specific vocabulary - Build confidence in professional communication - Provide skills that have specific real-world applications

Course Expectations:
1. Attend all classes.
2. Be on time.
3. Participate in all class activities.
4. Complete all assigned work and readings on time Attendance Policy: Class attendance is mandatory. There are no excused absences. You are allowed two absences (yes, the first week counts). Three absences result in the lowering of the final grade one letter grade, making a B the highest grade possible to earn.  4-5 absences will result in 2 letter drops in grade.  The highest grade you may earn would be a C. 6 absences will result in failure of the course. There are no excused absences. Lateness & Early Departures: Three late arrivals to class will result in one recorded absence. The same policy applies to early departures. Late Work: Late work is not accepted. Missed Examinations: You may not make up a missed quiz or test. You must be in class everyday of examination. If you are not in class during any point of the examinations you will receive half credit. Email: No emailed papers. Academic Dishonesty: Do not plagiarize.   Recording Devices: You cannot use a recording device of any kind in class without my expressed consent.