Through fiction and non-fiction, we will explore questions like these: Is all of life determined?  Is it ruled by accident?  Is what we see as chance really providence?  What does moral choice mean in a determined, random, or providentialuniverse?  We will also, of course, attend to character, structure, setting and other aspects of these particular works.  

Mary E. Steen Department of English    

Office: Library 405	Office Hours: Monday, 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Telephone: x3440	Tuesday, 1:30 - 3 p.m.
E-mail: msteen@stolaf.edu	Other times by appointment

Texts  

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, by Anne Fadiman	Persuasion,by Jane Austen
Into Thin Air,by Jon Krakauer	Snow Falling on Cedars, by David Guterson
Waiting, by Ha Jin	Words Fail Me, by Patricia O'Connor
A Pocket Style Manual, by Diana Hacker

       

Outside of Class

You will, first of all, write regular, informal responses to the reading. In these reading responses--sent by e-mail to the course alias (general-ed-111f)--you should let us know what you think of the reading; what comparisons, reflections, observations it prompts; what questions it raises. You should respond to what other students have written. Reading responses can be informal in tone, but they should still be well written, specific, and thoughtful--criteria on which they will be evaluated. You may skip one reading response without penalty.

You will also write essays in a variety of modes to communicate information, argue a point, interpret a piece of literature, reflect a personal voice. You will get considerable feedback on your writing, both from fellow students and from me, through both individual and group conferences on writing. Thorough revision is a given.

In Class

Much class time will be devoted to discussion--discussion of others' essays, discussion of the readings, discussion of writing strategies. Good class discussion is based on a steady level of contribution by all members of the group. At a minimum you should be prepared to volunteer considered opinions on the reading on a regular basis, and to back up those opinions with evidence from the texts. Even more valuable are questions and comments that relate one reading to another, and connect the readings to the overall topic of the seminar. The best contributions to class discussion will pose interesting questions, pull together issues, and relate our reading to current campus, national and international events. All good discussion is based on listening and responding to each other.

Grading

Over half of your final grade is based on the essays you write. Your final portfolio will include the two graded essays, 1 and 2 (without further revision), plus Essays 3 and 4, which you will have opportunity to revise before putting in your portfolio.

Other components of your grade include evidence of thoughtful reading (including both class discussion and reading responses), intelligent class participation (which, of course, presupposes regular attendance for both class and group meetings), significant contributions to group work, and such mechanical things as getting work in on time.