ENGL 101: Writing and Rhetoric I - Spring 2026 Syllabus Summary

Course Information

  • Course Title: ENGL 101: Writing and Rhetoric I

  • Instructor: Josh Novinger

  • Office Hours:

    • Monday: 4:30 - 6:00 PM

    • Wednesday: 12:00 - 1:15 PM, 4:30 - 6:00 PM

    • Friday: 12:00 - 1:15 PM

  • Email: joshnovinger@boisestate.edu

Class Sections & Schedule

  • Section 003/C:

    • Meeting Times: M/W, 1:30-2:45 PM

    • Lab: M, 12:00-12:50 PM (mandatory for 101P)

  • Section 004/D:

    • Meeting Times: W/F, 10:30-11:45 AM

    • Lab: M, 10:30-11:20 AM (mandatory for 101P)

Course Format

  • In-Person Class: Regular attendance required.

  • Utilizes Boise State University Canvas for assignments, discussions, and engagement.

  • Expect 6-7 hours of homework each week.

  • Assignments due Fridays at 11:59 PM (discussion board responses due Mondays).

Course Learning Outcomes

  • Read and communicate key concepts in writing and rhetoric.

  • Employ flexible writing strategies for various writing processes.

  • Conduct inquiry-based research and evaluate sources.

  • Use evidence-based reasoning to address biases.

  • Properly integrate and cite sources.

Assessments & Points Breakdown

  • Concept in Action: 150 points

  • Participation & Engagement: 250 points

  • Peer Review: 130 points

  • Reading Notes: 100 points

  • Small Group Workshop: 70 points

  • Unit Projects: 300 points

  • Total: 1000 points

Assignments Overview

  • Concept in Action: Interactive activities linked to major concepts.

  • Reading Notes: Summaries and reflections on readings.

  • Peer Review: In-depth writing evaluations among peers.

  • Small Group Workshops: Engage collaboratively on projects and discussions.

  • Unit Projects: Specific assignments that consolidate learning, like Genre Analysis Essay and Newsletter.

Attendance Policy

  • 3 unexcused absences allowed; further absence affects grade.

  • Medical, jury duty, or military-related absences may be excused with documentation.

Late Work Policy

  • Late submissions incur a 5% deduction per day (max one week).

  • Peer review submissions must be on time to be valid.

Grading Scale

  • A: 100-97.5%

  • B: 87.4-83.5%

  • C: 77.4-73.5%

  • D: 67.4-63.5%

  • F: <59.4%

Generative AI Policy

  • Prohibited: No use of AI tools for assignments.

Educational Access Statement

  • Accommodations available through the Educational Access Center.

Student Well-Being Support

  • Resources available for emotional/academic assistance; contact Office of the Dean of Students for help.

Course Topics

  • Diverse materials covering writing processes, rhetoric strategies, and personal identity through literacy narratives.