LIT160 Introduction to Literature

1. to develop students' appreciation for and understanding of effective literature in its

various modes and genres.

2. to develop students' awareness of and ability to use principles that support sound

critical judgment of various works of literature by diverse communities of readers.

3. to heighten students’ awareness of and sensitivity toward the artistry of creative writers.

4. to help students develop their ability as readers to comprehend and respond to literature from a variety of perspectives.

5. to encourage, through this increased understanding, students' enjoyment of literature.

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Methods

1. Readings, class discussion, and background lectures.

2. Group and individual responses, written and/or oral, to assigned readings and

materials, and other appropriate group and individual instructional activities.

3. Attendance at plays, readings, and relevant department-sponsored activities.

4. Audiovisual supplements, field trips, guest speakers, etc.

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Evaluation

1. Three unit tests, a combined quiz/participation/assignment score, and a comprehensive final examination will all be weighted equally. The final course grade will be the average of the highest four of these items.

2. Brief quizzes (announced or unannounced, objective or essay) given throughout the

course. See the course schedule for more details.

3. Participation in class discussion and group activities counts as a double quiz grade. Participation will be assessed in terms of the following:

· evidence of preparation

· quality and frequency of contributions to discussion on both an individual and group basis

· readings/explications of selected fiction, poetry, and plays

· attendance at plays and guest lectures and completion of related assignments. (Attendance at 1-2 plays and/or readings may be required; in exceptional cases, alternate assignments may be arranged in advance.)

4. Students are allowed up to two personal days for absences if necessary. I assume these will be used only for good reasons, such as serious illness, death in the immediate family, college obligations, important personal business, etc. Although attendance is not formally evaluated, absence beyond these two class periods will, of course, normally affect class participation adversely. Tests, quizzes, and other assignments normally cannot be made up if missed, but you may, with sufficient written notice (memo or e-mail), be able to meet quiz and assignment (not test) obligations in advance. You are responsible for all work due and/or done in class whether you are present or not.

5. This class is available on a pass/fail basis.

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Text: Meyer, Michael, ed., The Bedford Introduction to Literature, 4th edition (Boston: St. Martin's), 1996.

Communication Standards: York College recognizes the importance of effective communication in all disciplines and careers. Therefore students are expected to competently analyze, synthesize, organize, and articulate course material in papers, examinations, and presentations. In addition, students should know and use communication skills current to their field of study, recognize the need for revision as part of their writing process, and employ standard conventions of English usage in both writing and speaking. Students may be asked to further revise assignments that do not demonstrate effective use of these communication skills. (Learning Resource Center assistance is available for preparing out-of-class written work.)

Academic Honesty: York College's policy on academic honesty appears in the student handbook and the current college catalog. Academic dishonesty may result in a penalty of "0" in the course and notification of the Dean of Academic Affairs.