English 20803 Intermediate Composition Writing as Argument 

 

This is a multimodal writing workshop that builds on its prerequisite ENGL 10803 by focusing on the analysis and production of arguments in a variety of media (i.e., print, visual, oral, digital). This term we will focus on a particular theme: evidence and scientific integrity.  Readings will be selected to provide experience with distinguishing between types of evidence, between scientific, political, and commercial rhetoric, and between neutral data, news reporting, public relations, propaganda, disinformation, and "fake news." Students will select and work individually on independent study topics for the duration of the course,  and compose various effective arguments in multimodal formats that blend traditional print-based rhetorical strategies with digital media:

 

• Evidence, Sourcing, Fact-checking

• Classical Argument 

• Framing  With Warrants

• Conflict Resolution

• Web Advocacy

 

After choosing a research topic for the semester, students will research and produce:

1 annotated bibliography 

1 classical researched argument

2 mini-essays/ reflections

1 graphics bank

1 illustrated PowerPoint conflict resolution argument

1 copyright-law compliant public advocacy website

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English 20803 satisfies Written Communication 2 (WCO) requirement in the TCU Core Curriculum. The prerequisite for this course is ENGL 10803 or the equivalent,  and sophomore standing (24 hours). This course is prerequisite to all upper-division English and advanced writing courses at TCU.