Upon completion of this course the students should be able to:

• Approach writing as a process.
• Read and analyze a variety of academic texts, and learn to appreciate the contributions of the writings of authors from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Use invention strategies--listing, brainstorming, clustering, mapping, etc. --to develop and organize ideas.
• Write coherent college-level essays that include a clear, arguable thesis statement.
• Create essays with effective introductions well-developed body paragraphs, and effective concluding paragraphs.
• Use clear topic sentences in paragraphs, and use effective transitional expressions to move from one idea to another.
• Apply the conventions and rules of standard English--grammar, mechanics, and usage--in written assignments.
• Develop skill-building techniques and apply them in written assignments.
• Participate in class discussions and group activities in the classroom.
• Document research using MLA format

• have college-level skills in reading, writing, and oral communication appropriate to their degree and/or emphasis.
• have problem solving, creative, and critical thinking skills.
• have effective and efficient learning skills, including the location and evaluation of information.
• understand the importance of cultural traditions, diversity, and ethics in the modern world.