02/18/2026 reading compostion class

Free Writing and Reading Relationship

  • Emphasis on writing as integral to the learning process.
  • Connection between free writing and reading is highlighted.
  • Mention of a specific focus on "College Comp" course material.

Class Schedule and Instructor Information

  • Class meetings scheduled for Monday and Wednesday from 07:30 to 09:20.
  • Instructor’s formal title: Professor Gallaudet (not Miss or Mrs.).
  • Email contact: gallaudet@stlcc.edu, issues with email communication may occur—use Canvas for contact if issues arise.

Class Attendance and Communication

  • Apology for late notifications about class cancellations.
  • Office location: AI 237, procedures for one-on-one conferences regarding essays.
  • Office hours: Monday and Wednesday from 16:20 to 17:20.
  • Response timeline for emails: within 24 hours on weekdays, emphasis placed on prior scheduling for meetings.

Course Objectives and Curriculum

  • Focus on developing effective writing techniques including:
    • Balance between generalizations and specific illustrations.
    • Appropriate organization patterns considering subject, audience, and purpose.
    • Production of coherent essays achieving rhetorical goals.
    • Communication free from major grammatical errors in mechanics and diction.
    • Evidence of prewriting techniques across various graphic writing formats.
    • Writing for diverse audiences.
  • Overview of in-class activities: prewriting, journals, essay developments, reading materials.

Course Materials

  • Required software: Microsoft Word (only accepted format for submissions), emphasis against using Google Docs.
  • Required writing instruments: pen, pencil, highlighter, loose-leaf, and notebook.

Technology Requirements

  • STLCC email communication is mandatory for college correspondence.
  • Students must have access to Canvas and Microsoft 365 tools.
  • Microsoft software is included in tuition; no additional purchases required.

Writing Center Resources

  • Encouragement to utilize the Writing Center for assistance with writing assignments.
  • Location: Library Room IR206 on the 2nd Floor; appointments may be scheduled online through TutorHub.

Attendance Policy

  • Regular attendance is mandatory to pass; excessive absences may result in failing grades.
  • Policy states: one absence allowed per credit hour, maximum three absences for this three-credit course.
  • Documentation required for absences exceeding the allowed limit; credible sources include physician's letters only.

Late Work and Grading Policies

  • No late work accepted unless in very rare cases.
  • Assignments must be submitted via Canvas; rationale provided to avoid missed submissions and to streamline feedback processes.
  • Feedback provided is constructive, aimed at skill development rather than criticism.
  • All assignments must be in MLA format: double-spaced, one-inch margins, Times New Roman font size 12.

Essay Requirements

  • Three essays will be assigned:
    • Personal narrative essay (first essay).
    • Descriptive essay.
    • Compare and contrast essay (details not disclosed).
  • Total points for the course: 300, with each essay worth 100 points.
  • Essay drafts:
    • First draft (25 points), feedback provided.
    • Second draft (25 points), with a one-on-one conference after peer feedback.
    • Final draft (50 points).
  • Class participation, including note-taking and discussions, contributes 50 points.
  • Journal entries are to be determined (may range from 3 to 4).

Grading Scale

  • Scale:
    • A: 499-519
    • B: 479-498
    • C: 457-478
    • D: 456 or fewer (fail).

Behavioral Expectations and Conduct

  • Academic integrity paramount; behaviors disrupting a positive learning environment are not tolerated.
  • Students are expected to engage respectfully; sarcasm in communications penalized.
  • Disruptive students may be dismissed, affecting their grades.

Academic Integrity and Consequences of Misconduct

  • Defined by the college’s principles of honesty, responsibility, and respect.
  • Plagiarism and cheating strictly forbidden; all sourced content must be attributed accurately to avoid academic dishonesty.

AI and Writing Expectations

  • Strong admonition against using AI for writing; genuine student voice is emphasized.
  • Critical thinking skills cannot develop through reliance on AI tools.
  • Instructors can typically identify AI-generated work; originality and authenticity expected in student writing.
  • Recommendations against using AI tools except for grammar/punctuation checks.
  • Documentation policy for any use of AI tools outlined, requiring citations and process logs for any AI-generated contributions.

Course Adjustments and Additional Resources

  • Adjustments to course outline due to missed class time; aim to streamline objectives for the remaining coursework.
  • Availability for student questions and accommodations as needed; students encouraged to discuss any personal needs early.