This course has several required components. The most reoccurring one being what Dr. O calls reading responses. Each week, in preparation for class discussion, he assigns required readings. These could be from the main course textbook, or they could be pulled from outside sources either in PDF form or articles online. Along with the readings he composes a main question for the students to react to and answer based on what they know and have learned from the various texts. It’s important to note each reading in the RR’s in some way; be it an idea, a theory or a reference to the author’s name/ scholarship.
He is BIG on scholars and their work. You will learn this very quickly. I’d encourage you to get familiar with each of them and be able to recall which scholars go with which theory or concept. For example, Lloyd Bitzer goes with the rhetorical situation and exigence, and Krista Ratcliffe is associated with rhetorical listening.
He also periodically asks for reflections of either the class, a project, or of him. And there are a few discussion board posts throughout the semester. These mainly allow us to share our work or ideas with our classmates.
Finally, theory and practice of writing has two main projects: project 1 and project 2. Dr. O gives more of a concrete outline and framework for the first project, although he is fairly flexible and reasonable with what the students want to do.
Project 2 is where the students create their own project, and a rubric for that project. Then together Dr. O and the student will discuss both the theme for the project and the rubric, and figure out a mutual understanding of expectations for that assignment.
* Disclaimer: The projects do NOT have to be formal papers* This website is my project 2.
Other examples of projects include lesson or unit plans, formal essays, power point presentations, and works of creative writing. Below you will find a more specific breakdown of grades and assignment expectations.
Taken from ENG 306 syllabus
In summary, if your English 306 class is anything like mine was, you’ll do approximately 10 reading responses, 2 main projects, 3-5 reflections and a few discussion board posts. This is all subject to change and the professor has final say of assignments of course. It is certainly a lot of work, and I’d encourage you to use your time well and not procrastinate.
Theory and Practice of Writing 