Intermediate Composition (205-0-20)
Topic
From Story to Argument
Instructors
Kathleen Carmichael
847/467-5592
555 Clark, Room 239
Office Hours: By appointment
Meeting Info
Shepard Hall Classroom B05: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
This course examines the intersection of story and argument, both to investigate how creative storytelling may provide the inspiration for argument and to examine how effective writers and researchers may be seen to build their arguments (legitimately or otherwise) on the foundation of story. Readings will range from discussions of the graphic novel to considerations of how everyday citizens manipulate social media to tell the stories they desire (or vice versa). We will also look at case studies that illustrate how the ever-widening gulf between the stories told by specialists and non-specialists plays out in the public sphere and the making of public policy.
This course is recommended for students who wish to refine their mastery of the essay form while experimenting with a range of creative approaches to articulating arguments and persuading audiences. Key assignments will require research into a question of the student\'s own choosing, refined and developed over the course of the quarter. Students are welcome to use this class to deepen their explorations of research problems that they may have begun investigating in other classes or contexts.
Teaching Method
Discussion. Students will also meet individually with the instructor and as small working groups to discuss their writing.
Evaluation Method
Two short essay assignments, one in-class final presentation and a final major paper (developed in many drafts over the course of the quarter). The form the final paper takes will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Options include literature reviews, narrative research investigations, research-driven creative writing, and drafts of formal papers.
Class Materials (Required)
"Understanding Comics. Scott McCloud. William Morrow Paperbacks; Reprint edition (1994). ISBN 978-0060976255 (really any edition is fine)
They Say / I Say. Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein. Norton (2010). ISBN 978-0393933611; any edition fine and used encouraged (though Norris will only stock 4th and latest edition). Students do NOT need the version with readings.
Writing With Power. Peter Elbow. Oxford UP (1998) ISBN 978-0195120189; any edition fine and used encouraged.
Fields of Reading, Motives for Writing (9th or 10th edition). Comley, Hamilton, et al. (Eds.). Bedford/St. Martin\'s. ISBN-13: 978-1457608919
Additional readings will be available online."