1. Understand the importance of precise writing in college and in the workplace
2. Determine your audience
3. Recognize and be able to use the various modes of writing to express yourself
4. Learn to think and write logically
5. Use consistency in tone and point of view
6. Apply current technology for research and production of your papers
7. Revise and edit all your work
8. Demonstrate mastery of standard grammar and mechanics
9. Appreciate the importance of peer revision and editing
10. Follow directions accurately

This is a hands-on interactive course. Although some part of each class may be devoted to lecture, the majority of the time will be spent in discussion and in-class reading and writing. Discussions may center on readings done outside of class, or they may be in the form of peer revisions and editing. In-class writings may be in response to readings or pictures, or they may be rough drafts for future assignments, or a combination of both.

Grading is based upon a point system. Attendance is worth one point for each class attended. The point count for assignments is listed under "Assignments." Points will be deducted for late papers, missing rough drafts, etc. There is no extra credit for this course; there are sufficient readings, writings, research, and quizzes to keep you busy, in addition to your other classes. However, there are two (2) optional rough -draft assignments, totaling a possible 100 points. Completing all of these, attending scheduled conferences, and good attendance could raise your grade. Of course, conversely, not fulfilling the responsibilities set forth in this course could also affect your grade negatively.

Final grades earned are A, B, C, D, F, or I. The Incomplete grade will be followed by a slash
and the grade earned by the student at the end of the semester (ex: I/D). This grade will be
given only if the student has no more than three (3) missing assignments to complete. I do not
give Ns in transfer-level courses, except in extraordinary circumstances. Most colleges at UH
consider the N as a failing grade, and most Mainland colleges do not understand or recognize
an N. At best, such a grade has a negative connotation. If a student is in danger of receiving a D or F, a W for Withdrawal is the only other option, but that can only be obtained by the student before the "withdrawal date" specified in the school calendar.