English 1301 and 1302 are courses based in rhetoric and composition to teach you foundational skills in research, source assessment, rhetoric (for making good arguments or recognizing bad ones), and writing. This guide will walk you through the various skills and tips you might need for either of these classes. For more individualized assistance, contact your English librarian, or schedule an appointment with the Research Mavs.
ENGL 1301 focuses on helping on understand the rhetorical moves of any argument. The goal of the course is to be able to explain the different parts of someone's rhetoric. In order to do this, you will learn rhetorical moves and strategies-- but most importantly, you will learn: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.
The assignments in this class are very prescriptive, in order to help familiarize you with the different parts of an argument. You will either be provided sample information to access via Reading Clusters, or your professor might ask you to come up with your own examples. In each of these assignments, you will be asked to identify things like: central claims, conflicts, speakers, and the ethos, pathos, and logos of the argument or example. For full instructions on all assignments, see your professor or class' canvas page.
Discourse Community Analysis (DCA):
Rhetorical Analysis Essay (RAE):
Synthesis Essay:
English 1301 focuses on asking you to learn how arguments are created, the parts of them, and be able to articulate how the argument has been formed. All of your papers add up to being able to create your own argument
What is an argument?
How do I find a way to "enter into an argument?"
To Back up your arguments-- you will use your reasons (Logos/Facts/Proofs)
What else can I use?
ENGL 1302 focuses on teaching you research and writing skills. There are three main assignments to the class: The Issue Proposal, the Annotated Bibliography, and the Mapping the Issue Paper. These assignments build off one another, and are designed to teach you the steps in the research life cycle.
For the issue proposal, you will be asked to identify a topic, concept, or argument that can be explored. Your goal is to be able to identify various points of view, the history, and the outlook for this topic. Pick something that interests you, but also something that you can find sources on! Once you have picked your topic, it will be time to embark on your research.
After you've decided on your topic, presented the proposal to your professor, and have had it approved, your next job will be to research sources that you might use for your annotated bibliography. Your annotated bib entries have specific requirements (see your assignment instructions), but finding articles that will help you to complete your Mapping the Issue paper will save you time, and help to build your experience of research in the course.
Keep in mind, you will need to finds sources that speak to:
There are a few databases that can help you find these things. Recommended databases for this course are:
Tip: follow this guide on using Boolean Operators to help curate your keyword search on Academic Search Complete
Points of View Reference Center