EN 05202: College Writing
Summer Session 2005
Instructor: Terri Long
June 27-August 3
Office: McGuinn 100
M/W 8:30-11:30 am
e-mail: longt@bc.edu
Campion 235
Texts
Models for Writers: Short Essays for Composition, Alfred Ross &
Paul Eschholz, Editors
The Elements of Style, Strunk & White
A Writer’s Reference: 2003 MLS Update, Hacker
Great Writing Comes From The Heart:
Or, if you want to write well, you can
Despite an ever increasing emphasis on learning to write, an awful lot of
people still believe the old myth that great writers are born that way. Sure,
talent helps. The same can be said of almost any pursuit. Let’s be honest:
who’d argue that Pedro Martinez isn’t a more gifted athlete than most? The
important thing is, along with his natural ability, Pedro has heart. That
means, he believes in himself and, no matter how terrific his stats, he always
strives to improve. These two basic qualities—confidence and drive—
separate the Cy Young caliber pitcher from the rest of the pack.
While you might never become the Pedro Martinez of the literary world
(hey, you might not want to!), you can become a better, and even an
excellent, writer. After all, writing, like baseball, is something anyone can
learn. Learning to write well is simple: First, you have to want to write well.
Next, you have to believe that you can write well. Finally, and most
important, you have to practice (read: revise). And practice. And practice.
Whether you’re a terrific writer already or just starting out, it’s my hope
that this class will help you gain greater confidence in your writing ability;
that you’ll learn to ask thoughtful questions; and that you’ll discover new
ways of using your inherent brain-power and creativity to answer those
questions intelligently. Mastering these basic elements of good writing will
make you a better writer.
Essay Assignments: This class requires three major (two-three page)
essays, which you’ll write in steps, along with regular short-