Welcome to Principles of Literary Study Fall 2020.
Every Monday on our blog, I will post a "Weekly Overview" of the assigned readings. The post will cover key concepts and present discussion questions for you to answer. Think of this blog as a virtual classroom: The “Overview” is a mini-lecture, and the comments section is where we hold our discussion. The blog will also contain links to relevant websites, news, and video and music clips where applicable.
Every week, you will have the following tasks:
· Complete Assigned Readings (by Weds)
· Read the Weekly Overview (posted on blog each Monday)
· Write 2 comments in response to the Weekly Overview: The first comment (due Weds at 5pm) should respond to my post. The second comment (Due Thurs at 5pm) should respond to another classmate.
Thus, a typical week will look like this:
Mon
Read the Weekly Overview and discussion questions Posted on Course Blog. | Tues
Zoom Office Hours. Feel free to drop in!
2-4. | Weds Complete all readings on or before this date. Answer one discussion question in the blog comments section. | Thurs
Post a reply to one of your classmates in the blog comments section. | Fri
Get started on the readings for the following week.
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- We will have at least one or two of our April meetings via zoom during our regular class time, dates TBA.
- We will discuss flexible options for presentations and final assignments to adapt to the changing situation.
FAQs
- Does this blog take the place of CANVAS? No. Think of the blog as a classroom. You’ll still access the readings on CANVAS, and the blog will be a forum for discussion about those readings.
- When can I expect new posts? I will publish a “Weekly Overview” every Mon.
- What does a "Weekly Overview" entail? An overview of the readings, brief context, interesting tidbits, and discussion questions for you to respond to in the comments.
- What should comments entail? Your first comment should respond to the prompt I provide in the discussion post. I encourage you to quote the reading in your response. Your second comment should respond to something another classmate has written. You must extend or add something to their comment--it is not enough to say "I agree"! This means you’ll likely have to visit the blog a couple times per week to read what others have written.
- How long should comments be? 1 paragraph (4-5 sentences.)
- When will blog comments be due? The first comment is due by Weds at 5 and the second comment by Thurs at 5. But if you can post earlier than this, it will benefit everyone.
- Will the comments be graded? If you do the assignment on time you will automatically receive 5 points for each comment (A total of 10pts per week.)
- Do you have high expectations for the quality of these comments? This is a place to state your opinion and work out ideas. Do check for grammar and spelling; don't obsess over a super well formed ideas.
- Where can I find the syllabus and course schedule? Click here.
- How will you take attendance? See above. Blog comments will serve as attendance and participation.
- Where will I find the readings? The readings will be posted on CANVAS.
- When should I do the readings? It’s up to you, but you’ll need to do the readings before posting your first comment by Weds, so plan accordingly.
- How will I keep abreast of changing course policies? Check email as well as this blog.
- What if I don’t have frequent internet access? Email me when you can and we can work out an accommodation.
- What if I have internet access, but can’t access the blog to comment? Send me an email with your comment and I’ll post it.
- What if I am stressed and am having trouble completing the coursework? Email me, and we’ll talk about it.
- What if I have more questions? Again, email me! Or join the virtual office hour from Tues between 2-4.
