Grissom's Grammar and Composition

Class Tonight

2011-02-02T11:54:00.000-06:00

Lindenwood has not yet made a decision on whether evening classes will meet tonight. Please check the Lindenwood main page frequently for class cancellation information. At the top right on the main page, they have a special announcements section which will indicate if there is a closure.

Communications I Skills Assessment Exam This Week: Review

2011-01-31T12:39:00.000-06:00

Most of the questions on the test are covered in pages 1-45 of your Subjects and Strategies book:

Techniques to Get the Most out of your Reading
The Stages of Writing
What Makes a Good Thesis Statement
Intro Techniques
Conclusion Techniques
Run-ons
Fragments
Commas

Bring paper and pen, and remember you are allowed to use your notes for the exam.

Library Class is Monday, January 24th

2011-01-23T23:52:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that unless Lindenwood cancels classes due to weather, we will meet at Butler Library for our extra class. Bring everything you need to start doing research (a flash drive is a good idea if you have one).

We will at the front desk at 6 p.m.

Class Announcements

2011-01-18T23:28:00.000-06:00

I am keeping an eye on the weather. Lindenwood will announce it on the news if they cancel our class, so be sure to check before you leave. If so, I will try to schedule us a room for Thursday night.

Right now, it looks like it won't start until after class has concluded, so stay tuned.

We are experiencing technical difficulties....

2011-01-17T13:12:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone. For some reason I have not been able to access my Lindenwood email this week through the new portal, so if you need to get in touch with me, forward your email to triciagrissom at gmail.com.

Also, remember to submit your paper to turnitin.com.

Winter Quarter 2011 Class Westport Turnitin.com Information & Extra Class

2011-01-11T23:11:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

To register at turnitin.com, go to the website and create an account and join our class using our class's section number: 3748402. You will also need the password, which I will give to you during class tomorrow night.

The extra class, a library orientation, will be on Monday, January 24 at Butler Library starting at 6 p.m. I will update you as we get closer to the date. See you tomorrow night.

Five Tips for Starting the Communications Cluster

2011-01-11T20:13:00.000-06:00

1. Fear Not
Many of you have been out of school for years or even decades. This is not necessarily a disadvantage. You are here to learn how to write essays and research papers, so if you aren't sure how to do that, you are in exactly the right place. Sometimes after I have reviewed the first assignments, I recommend some students take a writing review class before attempting the Communications Cluster because we don't have much time for extensive work on the basics. Lindenwood is offering a class starting in the Spring of 2009 that helps students get their writing skills in shape.

2. Polish Your Skills
Some of you are already effective writers, but even the best writers can stand to review the rules once in awhile. So if you have a basic understanding of writing for college, use this class as an opportunity to make your writing even better and more polished.

3. Stock Up
You will need at least four folders: Two for turning in assignments, one for class handouts, and one for storing research paper sources/info. You will also want a notebook for notes and plenty of pens.

4. Take Notes
Part of your participation is taking notes and staying informed on deadlines and other class details. Because you are allowed to use notes on our tests, clear and comprehensive notes can be a big advantage. When you start taking notes, put the class date at the top of the page and mark important/major points with stars or underlining to help keep them organized.

5. Read the Instructions
Many of the questions you might have can be answered by the handouts you get in class. I absolutely do not mind answering questions, but why wait for a response from me on an assignment if you already have it at your fingertips in a handout?

Last Class and Information on the Exam

2010-12-14T23:14:00.001-06:00

A few quick notes for our last class tomorrow night. All papers must be submitted to turnitin.com by Friday or the grade turns to a zero. All papers and assignments must be turned in during the last class. I will accept no assignments after the class has concluded.

Exit Exam
Bring a standard calculator for the exam if you have one. It is actually a basic skills exam for writing, math, and social sciences. DO NOT PANIC. It will not harm your grade as long as you take it. They are getting a baseline at the start of your college career, and everyone will have to take this test again before they graduate.

I am keeping an eye on the forecast. IF I have to cancel class, I will post it here. Hopefully I will see you all tomorrow night.

Review for Research Writing Skills Test

2010-11-18T19:08:00.000-06:00

Finding a Research Topic
If you were assigned another research paper, what steps would you take to find a topic to write about?

Evaluating Sources
How do you evaluate sources? What makes them good quality sources?

Formal Research Writing
Research writing is more formal than other types of writing. Explain some differences between informal essay writing and research writing.

Paraphrasing, Summarizing, and Quoting
You get sources into your paper using these three methods. Define each and explain why and how use them in a research paper.

Logos, Ethos, Pathos
These are three ways to persuade an audience. Define them and give examples. Review three ways to argue.

Logical Fallacies
These are arguments with bad logic. They are often used because they fool people, but good sources won't have logical fallacies and you shouldn't use them in your own writing. Be familiar with at least 4 common fallacies.

Responding to the Other Side
You can acknowledge or refute the opposing side's arguments. How do you do this and why does it help persuade your audience?

Signal Phrases
Signal phrases introduce quotations into your paper, often by explaining what the source of evidence is or the name and qualifications of the expert you are quoting. Know how to use them and give an example.

Brackets and Ellipses
These are tools to help you handle quotations in a research paper. Ellipses allow you to leave out part of a quote, and brackets go around anything you added to a quotation to help your audience understand it. Know how and why to use [sic] also.

In-text Citations
These are citations used within your writing to show where source information came from. You either mention the source in your writing or add it in parenthesis at the end of the sentence. Give examples of in-text citations and show where the punctuation goes when using an in-text citation at the end of a sentence.

Update on Library Class

2010-11-03T10:36:00.000-05:00

Good news. We have a room in Butler Library for our orientation tonight. Come in the front doors and up to the stairs to the main desk. I will meet you there.

Library Class Tomorrow Night - Confirmed

2010-11-02T22:00:00.000-05:00

We will meet at the library tomorrow night, regardless of whether they are able to schedule the orientation. Michael is working on getting us a classroom and we may know by tomorrow at 9 a.m. We will do our own crash course if need be, but everyone should have an opportunity to do research and start on Assignments 1-3 when we meet there tomorrow night. Bring several topics to research. We may be going to another room, or in the morning I may post a room where we will meet.

I will go to the library and gather anyone who doesn't know where to go, so if you don't get a chance to look at the blog, come to the library and we will go from there. Email if you have questions and if you were not in class on Monday, please email me so I know you have received notice of the change in meeting place. I will try to call anyone who was absent if I don't hear from them tomorrow morning.

Here is a link to the campus map for reference.

Where Can I Do Research?

2010-10-31T11:48:00.000-05:00

Start With Lindenwood's Library
To do research from home, you will need your Lindenwood I.D. number, which is your social security number. Follow the directions for signing in. If you want to check out materials, you will need your student I.D.

Contact the reference librarian for Butler Library at Lindenwood for specific reference sources for your topic. You can call them, or e-mail if you are at a distance site.

Other Places to start doing Research:
NPR.org The National Public Radio site has programs like Morning Edition and Talk of the Nation that discuss controversial issues. You can listen to archived versions of the programs on your computer if you have a media player. It is a great place to browse for current topics and find experts to research further.

FirstGov.gov is the official portal to all U.S. government agencies. Here you can find information by topic on subjects such as health, education, technology, agriculture, history, arts, and culture.They also have an extensive reference section on data and statistics for the United States such as crime rates, census data, and economic indicators. It’s an excellent source for a variety of subjects.

Refdesk.com is a free reference site that has link to all the major news outlets like CNN, MSNBC, ABC and more. Scroll down a bit to find the listing for news sources.

The Librarians Internet Index researches websites and then recommends them on their page. It has lots of great links to credible websites that public librarians have researched for their patrons.

Turnitin.com Class Number Fall 2010

2010-10-13T14:54:00.000-05:00

The class number for turnitin.com is 3569293 . Use this number and the password I gave you in class to submit your paper. We will cover any questions tonight in class.

Happy Labor Day - Class Rescheduled for Wednesday

2010-09-06T14:30:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder that our usual Monday class has been rescheduled for Wednesday night because of the Labor Day Holiday. Hope you have a good one.

I will see you in Room 260A on Wednesday.

Microsoft Office 2010 for Students

2010-08-28T09:53:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Doug sent me this link to the student price for Microsoft Office 2010 . If you have an email address with a .edu (everyone in our class) you can use it to buy Office at a discounted rate.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Lindenwood Students Reminder: Our Extra Class is this Wednesday Night

2010-08-01T14:48:00.001-05:00

Our extra class will meet this week on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 in Butler Library on the main campus of Lindenwood University in St. Charles, MO. Check the campus map for directions.

Be sure to sign in when you arrive. We will tour the library, and then go to a computer lab for the database orientation. If you are late, ask at the library front desk for the room number or call me on my cell phone number - it's listed on the syllabus.

Be sure to bring at least two topics you want to research.

Lindenwood Students: Review for Literature Final

2010-06-15T23:54:00.000-05:00

Test Review

1. Be able to explain the elements of short fiction in detail. Review the pages in our Literature book and include as many examples as possible.

2. Be able to extensively explain three ways poets construct their poems. (Information is in the chapter on a poet's means) Give examples. Rhyme, imagery, personification, alliteration, assonance, metaphor, similes, apostrophe...

3. Know the elements of drama and how drama differs from short fiction and poetry. Dialogue and Staging are the two principle differences - but how does the experience differ between reading a story and seeing a play?

All papers must be turned in the last class unless you have an approved incomplete. Bring a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your papers back after class concludes. Put your address as the return address on the envelope.

Literature Paper is Posted to Turnitin.com

2010-06-15T20:55:00.000-05:00

I have posted the Literature assignment to turnitin.com, so please submit your paper as soon as possible. Papers without submissions receive no points, and we don't want that to happen....

See you next week for Hamlet.

Memorial Day Class - Rescheduled for Wednesday, June 2

2010-05-17T10:27:00.000-05:00

As we discussed in class last week, the Memorial Day class will be moved to Wednesday, June 2. We will meet at the same time,( in room 101) instead of our usual room. Let me know if you have any questions.

Lindenwood Students: Turnitin.com Deadline Extended

2010-05-05T09:25:00.000-05:00

I have extended the deadline for the next few days on turnitin.com, so you may submit your Short Papers 1 and 2 if you have not already done so. Please be sure to get them in as soon as possible

Turnitin.com Information

2010-04-16T11:11:00.000-05:00

Lindenwood Students:

Here is part of the information you will need to sign up with turnitin.com

Monday Spring Communications Cluster Class Number: 3235393

I had to change the password I originally gave you in class, so please email me for the correct password, or I will give it to you Monday night. Remember the password is case sensitive. Please try to submit your paper before you come to class on Monday. If you have any trouble, let me know and we'll work on fixing it.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Reminder for Lindenwood Students - Turnitin.com and Journal Grades

2010-03-27T13:22:00.000-05:00

Thank you for a great Winter Quarter. This is a gentle reminder to make sure your paper is submitted to turnitin.com and that you send me your journal grade for journals 5-8 if you have not already.

Have a great Spring Quarter.

St. Charles ENG 096 Students: Comparison and Contrast Paper Assignment

2010-03-12T09:14:00.000-06:00

For this essay, you will compare two or more services, products, or ideas to make a point about their similarities and differences. For example, you could compare your personality to a sibling’s or two apartments you are thinking about renting. If you are into comics, you might compare Superman vs. Batman. Find a topic that interests you to use for the comparison.

Your paper should have the following:

An introduction technique
A thesis that clearly states the overall point of your comparison
Clear criteria
Evidence to support your judgments
Clear judgments about each category
Use of all criteria on the objects/services you are examining
A conclusion technique
Clear Organization: Block or point by point
Correct grammar, punctuation, word choice and spelling
Clear, easily read sentences
Transition words and phrases

The paper should be 3 to 4 pages long. Turn it in using a two-pocket folder, and include at least one rough draft besides the final version and your peer review comments. Put your name on the front of the folder. Use Times New Roman 12 pt font for the essay.

St. Charles 096 Students: Anne Sexton's "Cinderella"

2010-03-08T16:10:00.000-06:00

Please read the Anne Sexton poem "Cinderella" for class on Friday. We will be comparing different versions of the Cinderella story.

Lindenwood Students: Remember to Pick Your Poet

2010-03-08T08:27:00.000-06:00

This is just a reminder that the first draft of the Literature Paper is due this Wednesday, and I need your choice of poet for the oral presentation. Be sure to email if you have questions or you want to claim your poet.

Reminder: St. Charles 096 Developmental Classes

2010-02-23T21:58:00.000-06:00

Remember that our individual conferences start tomorrow, so only come for the conference time you signed up for. Be sure to bring your graded Description Paper and one writing problem you want to work on.

If you miss your conference time, you must reschedule or you will be counted absent for three class periods. My email is tgrissom@stchas.edu if you have questions.

We will be back to regular class meetings on Wednesday, March 3.

St. Charles Students

2010-02-20T16:51:00.000-06:00

Reminder: The Narration Paper is due on Monday. Please put it in a folder with all your drafts and peer reviews. We will also have a sign-up sheet for next week's conferences.

Bring your graded Description Paper to work with as we discuss commas and word choice.

Lindenwood Students

2010-02-20T16:48:00.000-06:00

Reminder: In addition to finishing the final draft of the research paper, remember to read the literature pages assigned for next week. Be sure to note any questions you have as you move through the stories, so we can discuss them in class.

St. Charles 096 Students: Bring Your First Draft for Wednesday

2010-02-15T21:38:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone enjoyed their snow day. On Wednesday we will pick up with peer review of the narration paper draft. Bring three copies for review.

St. Charles 096 Students: Remember to Bring 3 Copies of Your First Draft

2010-02-07T18:24:00.000-06:00

Don't forget three copies of your description paper for peer review tomorrow. Be sure to include sensory details and figurative language.

Lindenwood Students: Reminder about Library Night Rescheduling

2010-01-25T11:53:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone. I just wanted to remind you that I had to reschedule the library orientation. We DO NOT meet tonight. We will meet at Butler Library at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 28.

Email if you have questions.

St. Charles Community College Students - Links to Syllabi

2010-01-20T09:47:00.000-06:00

Welcome to class, St. Charles Students. Below are links to the course schedules and readings due for each of my classes, as well as the rules of the classroom. If you lose your syllabus, just print one using the link below.

HUM Room 214 MWF EN096-02 8:00-8:50 a.m. Class Syllabus

SSB Room 1201 MWF EN096-06 10:00-10:50 a.m. Class Syllabus

Lindenwood Students: Turnitin.com Instructions

2010-01-13T15:49:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone,

The Class Number for Turnitin.com is below. You will need to register and join my class before it will let you submit your papers. I will give you the password in class; you will need it before you can sign on. Be sure to join the correct class.

Wednesday Communications Cluster Winter 2010
Class Number: 3072635

EN095 Guidelines for Final Description or Narration Paper

2009-12-01T19:33:00.000-06:00

Your final paper should have the following:

A clear overall point about your story or description. For example, if you are describing a place or person, summarize your dominant impression of them. If you are telling a story, explain what the event taught you.
Clear Organization such as chronological order for a story or spatial order for a description (top to bottom, left the right...)
Correct grammar, punctuation, word choice and spelling
Clear, easily read sentences

Bring a first draft to class tomorrow for revision.

The final paper should be 3 pages long. Turn it in using a two-pocket folder, and include at least one rough draft besides the final version and your peer review comments. Put your name on the front of the folder. Use Times New Roman 12 pt font for the essay, and turn it in at 2:30 p.m. on December 7.

Topics for Persuasive Research Papers

2009-10-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

One of the best ways to organize topic brainstorming is to think of major categories and look for controversies within the subject. Listed below are some possible topics. Most are too large right now for a 10-12 page paper, so be sure to narrow them down.

Consider your favorite subjects as well; there may be something controversial about your hobby or interest: fighting in hockey, laws to protect bicylists, environmental concerns for vacation homes...
These topics have been discussed recently:

Medicine
Regulation of over the counter herbs/medications
Health care costs
Anti aging and plastic surgery treatments
AIDS in Africa
Genetic counseling
Genetic manipulation of people/crops
Plastic Surgery for Teens
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Childhood Obesity Issues

Privacy
Google protest about releasing user records
Wiretapping American citizens
Buying personal information on the internet
Employers forcing employees to quit smoking
Internet censorship
Employee surveillance
Patriot act

Education
Sex education
On-line education vs. brick and mortar
No Child Left Behind
Standardized testing
Cost of College
Arts Funding Cut for Schools
School Security
Cheating

Politics/Social Issues
Minors charged with child pornography for "sexting" their own pictures
Rebuilding New Orleans
Torture in interrogation
Alternative energies
Homeland security issues
Immigration Issues
Requiring I.D. for voters
Electronic Voting Machines
Deaf Culture vs. Cochlear implants
Off-shore Gambling
Minimum wage
Tobacco tax

Media
Reporters revealing sources
Sports Stars salaries/crimes
NASA/Manned space travel
Music/video pirates
Rap Music Lyrics
Liberal/Conservative Bias in Media
Advertising Images of Women

For more topics, Northwestern University also provides a list of hot topics to consider writing about.

Lindenwood Wednesday Westport Students

2009-10-14T12:49:00.000-05:00

I went to check turnitin.com, and for some reason they did not have the Short Paper 1 assignment posted for the Wednesday class. I apologise if you have tried to submit it, and it did not work. I have now reposted the assignment, so you can now submit. Short Paper 2 is also listed, so be sure to submit the right paper for the right assignment.

If you have any problems, we will discuss them in class tonight. You have until tomorow to upload your Short Paper 1 to turnitin.com.

St. Charles EN095 Students

2009-10-09T20:34:00.001-05:00

Study for the Midterm on Monday!

Midterm grades were due today, so if you receive notice you are not passing, come discuss the situation with me. The last day to drop and receive a "w" is October 23rd.

St. Charles Students in ENG 096: Reminders

2009-10-09T20:33:00.001-05:00

The Final Comparison/Contrast essay is due on Monday.
Include in a two-pocket folder:
The Final Paper
Drafts
Peer Reviews
Typed Cinderella Assigment

We are having class Monday. Conferences start on Wednesday, so be sure to sign up Monday if you haven't already.

Conferences:
Wednesday, October 14
Friday, October 16
Monday, October 19

You must visit the Ace Center sometime while class is out for conferences. Meet with a tutor if you feel you are having problems correcting your work, or do the online writing exercises they provide for at least 20 minutes. English assistance is by appointment only. Students should call 636-922-8444 or come into the ACE Center to make an appointment.

Take your Explaining Paper (I will return it Monday). Someone who works there must sign the paper to confirm you've been there, or you will be counted absent for that week.

Daniel J. Conoyer Social Science Building Room 2201
Ace Center Hours of Operation:
Monday-Wednesday 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lindenwood Students: Reminders for Next Week

2009-10-09T20:17:00.000-05:00

Remember to do the reading listed for next week, and submit the final version of Short Paper 1 to turnitin.com while you are printing it out. Turn it next class using a two-pocket folder. Include your drafts and peer reviews, and please indicate on the first page if you have written a narrative, description or definition paper.

Also, bring a first draft of Short Paper 2 for peer review.

Don't forget to start your grammar exercises and work on the journals.

See you in class.

Lindenwood Students: Turnitin.com Directions and Class Numbers

2009-10-06T16:09:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone,

The Class Numbers for Turnitin.com are below. You will need to register and join my class before it will let you submit your papers. I will give you the password in class this week; you will need it before you can sign on. Be sure to join the correct class.

Monday Communications Cluster Westport Fall 2009
Class Number: 2926065

Wednesday Communications Cluster Westport Fall 2009
Class Number: 2928444

Reminder: St. Charles 096 Developmental Classes

2009-10-01T17:53:00.005-05:00

Bring at least two copies of your process paper draft for peer review tomorrow. We will be using the peer editing handout, so make sure you bring it as well.

All Students: Open-Mic Coffeehouse Night This Week

2009-09-23T00:03:00.001-05:00

St. Charles Community College is hosting their first open-mic coffeehouse of the Fall semester this Thursday, September 24, 2009. Come by and share your writing (3-5 minutes worth) or just sit back and soak up the inspiration. Bonus - free coffee and cookies. This event is free and open to the public.

The SCC Coffeehouse meets from 7-9 p.m. in the auditorium of the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building.

St. Charles Community College Developmental Writing Students - Conference Reminder

2009-09-21T00:08:00.000-05:00

Remember we will be conferencing this week over the last two papers. Be sure to arrive 5 minutes early for your conference, or you may be skipped until the final conference has concluded.

Bring questions you have about your writing.

St. Charles Community College EN096 Students: Reminder

2009-09-17T08:54:00.000-05:00

On Friday, September 18 the following is due in a two-pocket folder:

The graded Description Paper with my comments
First draft of Narration Paper
Final Narration Paper
Smells Exercise
Your Peer Reviews

Next week we will meet for conferences. Be sure to arrive 5 minutes early for your conference, or you may be skipped until all appointments have concluded. We will meet in our classroom for these.

St. Charles Community College En096 Students: Reminder

2009-09-07T21:25:00.000-05:00

Remember your Description Paper is due Wednesday. Print now! Do not leave your masterpiece stranded in cyberspace. I cannot grade it there.

Remember to include in a two-pocket folder:
The First Draft
The Final Paper
Peer Reviews done in class
The exercises on Description done in class (Love is like... and Exercise B)

See you on Wednesday.

St. Charles 096: Bring Your Magazine Again on Friday

2009-08-27T09:18:00.003-05:00

I forgot to mention this yesterday: bring your magazines back on Friday for our discussion of titles and conclusions.

Lindenwood Students: Turnitin.com for Research Paper

2009-08-24T17:51:00.000-05:00

Please submit your research papers to Turnitin.com within 24 hours of submitting it to me in class this week. After the deadline, it will be counted late, and you will be chareged a 10 % late penalty for each day it is overdue.

Fall 2009: Office Hours and Syllabi for St. Charles Community College

2009-08-17T08:06:00.001-05:00

St. Charles Community College Students: Welcome to Fall Semester 2009. Here is some basic info for this semester's classes:

Instructor: Tricia Grissom

Office: HUM 203
Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday 12:50-2:20 p.m. (or by appointment)
Phone: 636-922-8254
Email: tgrissom@stchas.edu

All final papers/assignments submitted should be typed and formatted in MLA style as in this example. You will need 3 or 4 two-pocket folders for submitting work.

Here are links to the syllabi for my classes. Be sure you are looking at the correct one for your class. The meeting times/days/sections are listed at the top.

ENG 095-43
ENG 096-11
ENG 096-40

See you in class.

Changes to MLA 2009

2009-08-09T19:29:00.003-05:00

Hello Lindenwood students.

The updated MLA guidelines for 2009 have a few changes. For my summer class, try to incorporate the new changes, and we will discuss them in class. However, I will not count off if your paper citations match what is in your current book.

Still, it's good to get on board with the new method because the entire LCIE program uses MLA throughout for all papers. See Purdue's summary of the changes to MLA 2009 so you know what will be different, and we'll cover it in class too.

Let me know if you have questions.

Turninin.com Extension

2009-08-01T14:46:00.000-05:00

For those of you in the Tuesday class, I have extended the turnitin.com deadline for Short Paper 2 until August 5, 2009. Please submit your papers as soon as possible.

Lindenwood Class Schedule For Next Week - Extra Class and Schedule Change

2009-07-29T15:23:00.000-05:00

Remember our extra class will be next Wednesday, July 29 in Butler Library. I have also rescheduled the Tuesday night class for Thursday, July 30 in our usual room, 107. Tuesday students may also attend my Monday night class if desired.

So next week's schedule is as follows:
July 27 Monday at Westport: Regular Class meeting in Rm 253
July 28 Tuesday: No Class
July 29 Wednesday: Library Orientation 6-10 p.m. (meet at Butler Library for tour before we proceed to a computer lab)
July 30 Thursday: Tuesday class meets in room 107, 6-10 p.m.

Email if you have any questions.

St. Charles Community College Students: Reminders for the Last Week of Class

2009-07-29T14:57:00.001-05:00

ENG096 Developmental English: Be sure to do the reading listed for Monday, July 20, and bring the first draft of your final paper for peer review.

For Wednesday, July 22, do the reading listed and write down any remaining questions you have about writing.

ENG101 English Composition I: Remember we are only meeting for research paper conferences tomorrow (Monday, July 20). Only come for your scheduled conference.

On Wednesday, July 22, bring the 2nd draft of the research paper for editing and those with last names A-L should be prepared to give their oral presentation on the research paper. Last names M-Z will present on the day of the final, July 27.

Lindenwood Students: Turnitin.com Password

2009-07-28T19:52:00.000-05:00

Lindenwood Students:

For security reasons, I had to change the password for the turnitin.com classes. I cannot post it here, so please email me, and I will send you the correct one so you can submit your paper or I will give it to you in class next week. Sorry for the confusion.

Lindenwood Classes and Turnitin.com Class Numbers

2009-07-27T11:59:00.001-05:00

Lindenwood Students:

I have set up the paper assignments for your classes. The first, Short Paper 1, is due next week. Your paper should be submitted to turnitin.com on the same day it is due in class.

Go to turnitin.com and join the appropriate class. You will need the class number listed here before your class and the password to join, which is tgrissom. You must join a class before you can submit papers, so be sure to choose the correct night of the week.

Let me know if you have any questions.

2771290 Monday Summer Communications Cluster 2009 (Westport)

2771292 Tuesday Summer Communications Cluster 2009 (St. Charles)

Eight Introduction Techniques that Hook Your Reader

2009-07-13T08:07:00.000-05:00

The introduction of your paper draws your reader into the topic and encourages them to continue reading. Here are eight methods you can use to hook your reader and keep them reading.Caution: Be sure to ask each instructor if he or she requires your thesis to be in the first paragraph after your introduction technique. Some instructors allow it at the end, but some prefer it in the first paragraph.

1) Tell a Story
We like reading about people more than ideas or issues. Your audience will connect with your topic if you show them how it affects real people. If you are writing about plastic surgery for teens, tell me about Jessica’s nose job and I will read on to find out how it turned out.

2) Describe Something
Help us see the topic by using your senses to describe something about it. Seeing people, organizations, or events can connect us with the subject. For example, if your paper is on prison reform, you could start with a description of the prison conditions you are protesting.

3) Use a Quotation
Find a well turned phrase about your subject to get your audience’s attention. For example, Mark Twain said, "The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who can't read them." This might be a jumping off point for a discussion of book censorship. Check out Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations for ideas on your specific topic.

4) Use a Surprising Fact or Statistic
If you run across a surprising piece of information when writing or doing research, chances are it will surprise and interest your audience also. If you tell us half of all women will have heart disease, we will be interested in what your topic has to say about cardiovascular care. Show us something we didn't know, and we will conclude you have more information that may be valuable.

5) Go for Common Ground
This method works especially well if you are writing an argument paper. If you can find something both sides agree on, remind them of that common belief at the beginning and they will be more willing to listen to your side. Discussing an education issue? The majority of your audience will want students to get a good education, so start with that common goal and show how your issue connects to better learning.

6) Ask a Question
Asking a question makes your audience think about your issue; just make sure to answer the question in your paper. You don’t have to have the best answer, but you should fulfill the promise you made in asking the question by contributing your opinion. Writing about Internet censorship? Ask us what the Internet will look like in ten years, and then talk about your issue’s impact.

7) Start With a Controversial Thesis
If your thesis is controversial, start the paper with it. If you suggest reinstating the draft or eliminating Social Security, your reader will be curious enough about your provocative position to keep reading.

8) Provide Background Information
If we need a brief history to understand your topic, then give us the background – but only what we need. Some students use background information as space filler and bore themselves and their instructors with unnecessary background details. If you're writing about stem cell funding, a brief definition and explanation of their use might be in order, but we don’t need to know how they were discovered, or what cells are.

Lindenwood Students: Poets for Oral Presentations

2009-06-10T15:38:00.001-05:00

The following poets have been claimed for oral presentations so far:

Monday Class:
Billy Collins
Anne Sexton
Yeats
Emily Dickinson
Martin Espada
Dorothy Parker

Wednesday Class:
Shel Silverstein
Ginsberg
Langston Hughes

St. Charles Students: First Draft Due and Bring a Magazine

2009-06-07T20:17:00.000-05:00

A reminder for my EN 096 and 101 classes: first drafts are due tomorrow. You will not receive points if you don't have a draft to work with in class.

Don't forget to bring a magazine for our introduction exercise.

Please Submit Your Research Paper to Turnitin.com

2009-05-29T07:40:00.002-05:00

Lindenwood Students,

Please submit your research paper to turnitin.com as soon as possible. I must see your paper submitted before I can return the graded research paper to you. Yes! I'm holding them hostage!

Both assignments are now posted, so if you tried to submit them previously, I apologise for the delay.

St. Charles Community College Summer Library Hours

2009-05-27T15:20:00.001-05:00

The library hours for the summer semester (beginning June 1) will be 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday.

The library will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Lindenwood: Class Rescheduled for Monday Night Students

2009-05-26T12:58:00.000-05:00

The Monday Class for this week that fell on Memorial Day will be held Thursday, May 28th in our usual room (107) at 6 p.m. in the Cultural Building. We will take the test, and your Research Papers are due, along with the reading listed.

You also have the option of coming to the Wednesday night class at the Westport campus (Room 253) if you have a scheduling conflict on Thursday.

Let me know if you have any questions.

No Class Tonight - Memorial Day

2009-05-25T17:13:00.000-05:00

We will not meet tonight for the St. Charles Lindenwood Class. In the past I have had class on Memorial Day, but apparently the building is closed up tight. Please email me as soon as you see this notice. I will be calling to contact everyone to let them know. I apologise for the confusion.

This week's class is rescheduled for Wednesday night at my Westport Location in room 253. I will also try to arrange a classroom on Thursday at the St. Charles campus if not everyone is able to make the Wednesday class.

Have a good Memorial Day.

St. Charles Students: Grades for Spring Term 2009

2009-05-17T20:02:00.000-05:00

I bid a fond farewell to my EN101 and EN102 students from the Spring. You should be able to see your grades online sometime Friday afternoon.

If you get your grade and it doesn't seem in line with what you were expecting, check to be sure you did not miss more than four classes. Missing four or more classes (this includes time from leaving early and arriving late that adds up to a class period) results in the drop of a letter grade. We went over this the first class, and it is clearly stated in your syllabus.

Now go read something before you forget how.

St. Charles ENG 102 Class

2009-05-10T21:12:00.000-05:00

Remember your literature research paper is due Monday, May 11. Please place it in a folder with all drafts and peer review.

We will meet again on Wednesday, and I will return the papers to you. Email if you have questions, and don't forget your outline and works cited.

I will not accept papers after tomorrow.

Turnitin.com for Lindenwood Students

2009-05-05T11:54:00.000-05:00

Many of you still have not submitted your paper so turnitin.com. I have extended the deadline until May 8, so please get them in as soon as possible.

I will not extend the deadline again, so you will have points deducted from participation if you do not turn your papers in. Future papers should be submitted on the day they are due, or points will be deducted.

Grumpy teacher, signing off.

Library Class Tonight Tuesday April 28th

2009-04-28T00:48:00.000-05:00

We will meet at Butler library at 6 p.m. for the tour, then we will adjourn to a room with computers. Check the campus map for directions and parking info.

Please sign in when you arrive, so I can record your attendance.

Turnitin.com Information for Lindenwood Classes

2009-04-20T12:50:00.000-05:00

I have created classes on Turnitin.com for both Lindenwood sections. You may now go to the website and create a profile. Be sure to do this before attempting to turn in any papers, or it will reject them. I only want the final version of your paper - no drafts are necessary.

To submit a paper, you will need the class number for your night and the password, which I will give you in class this week.

Class Numbers:
2699060 Monday Communications Cluster Lindenwood Spring 2009
2699063 Wednesday Communications Cluster Lindenwood Spring 2009

Let me know if you have questions.

St. Charles Community College Coffeehouse Open Mic

2009-03-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

WHAT: The Coffeehouse open-mic night

WHEN: 7-9 p.m. Friday, April 3
WHERE: Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building auditorium; St. Charles Community College campus, 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. in Cottleville
COST: No cost

CONTACT INFO: Teddy Norris, 636-922-8407

CREATIVITY ENCOURAGED THROUGH READING, SONG AT SCC OPEN-MIC NIGHT

The SCC Coffeehouse, an Open-Mic night for poets, prose writers, song writers, and creative non-fiction writers to share their creativity, will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, April 3, in the auditorium of the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building at St. Charles Community College.

Organizers of The Coffeehouse open-mic night invite SCC students, faculty, staff, and the public to share their original selections, or to come to listen and enjoy the entertainment. Creative selections should be 5-7 minutes long. Complimentary coffee and cookies will be served.

"The Coffeehouse is an open-mic opportunity for creative people to share what they’ve written – poetry, short fiction, essays, skits, song, and more," said Teddy Norris, event organizer and professor of English. "The Coffeehouse brings them all under one roof and into the perfect setting to share their best work with others."

The SCC campus is located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. The open-mic night is free and open to the public.

For more information about The SCC Coffeehouse, call Norris at 636-922-8407 or visit www.stchas.edu/calendars and click on “Coffeehouse.”

St. Charles Eng 102 Students

2009-03-26T10:24:00.000-05:00

As we discussed in class, here is a link to the soldier's last blog.

And here are links to some others who are blogging about the war:

http://cbftw.blogspot.com/

http://docinthebox.blogspot.com/

http://www.daggerjag.blogspot.com/

http://cbftw.blogspot.com/

And here's a big list of them.

Lindenwood Students: Oral Presentation on a Poet

2009-03-14T16:40:00.000-05:00

The following poets have been claimed for oral presentations:

Robert Frost (Mary)
Yusef Komunyakaa (Nathan)
John Donne (Brent)
T.S. Eliot (Lisa)
Walt Whitman (Rob)
Emily Dickinson (Laura)
Elizabeth Barret Browning (Tina)
Langston Hughes (John)

All Students: Referring Students to Lindenwood's Night Program LCIE/Financial Aid

2009-03-14T16:32:00.001-05:00

Next cluster, Spring Quarter 2009, I will be teaching the LCIE Communications Cluster nights on Monday (St Charles Main Campus) and Wednesday (Westport Campus). If you know any working adults thinking about going back to school, and you feel like my class was helpful, please consider recommending they register with me or another instructor at Lindenwood.

If you would like to refer students online, you can fill out this form. Or to register, they should call Lori Malloy at 636-949-4500. Classes begin April 11 (Saturday orientation) and conclude the week of June 27, 2009.

More money is going into Pell Grants from the stimulus package, so be sure to check if you're eligible for more financial aid as you continue through college. Fill out your FAFSA form for this year if you haven't yet. You have to reapply every year. April 1, 2009 is the deadline for filling out the FAFSA for Missouri state grants, but they recommend you file as soon as possible. For more info on how to get started, see the government's website explaining how to apply for financial aid.

All St. Charles Students

2009-02-25T16:08:00.000-06:00

Annie Dillard Award
The Annie Dillard Writing Prize, named after the American Pulitzer Prize winning essayist and novelist, is an annual writing award contest sponsored by the SCC English Department. Read some of her writing here.

All students enrolled in English Composition 101 and 102 courses and Literature courses are eligible to submit 1,000-1,500 word expository papers based on course assignments.

Essays are judged by full-time English Department faculty.The author of the winning paper receives:

an invitation to the Student Award Banquet where the winner will be awarded a personal plaque and a $100 cash prize.
the winner’s name inscribed on the permanent plaque displayed in the English Department offices.
publication of the winning paper in The Mid Rivers Review, the SCC literary magazine.
official announcement in the CHAZ, a bi-monthly publication of the Marketing & Communications Department at SCC for students, employees, and friends

Paper should be submitted to me so I can forward them to the contest. The deadline is March 23, 2009.

To Submit:
Print a clean, double-spaced copy of the essay - no grading marks. Your full name shouldn't be in the text anywhere or at the top. Create a cover sheet with the following info printed on it:
Annie Dillard Award Submission
Essay title
Your name
Your address
Your phone number
Your email address
Name of the instructor and class the paper was created for

I will award 10 extra credit point for essays revised according to my comments and submitted to the contest. Let me know if you have questions.

All Students: This American Life - Great Storytelling

2009-02-19T00:33:00.000-06:00

If you want to study the art of great storytelling, check out the radio show This American Life. You can subscribe for free on iTunes. Or you can download podcasts for free up to one week after a show airs. It's seriously addictive.

And here is some dead-on advice from host Ira Glass on building stories.

St. Charles English 101 Students - Paper Due

2009-02-09T11:31:00.009-06:00

Reminder: Your narration paper is due tomorrow. Put it in a two-pocket folder with all drafts and other work on the paper. Use Times New Roman, 12 pt font and follow guidelines of the example MLA paper in The Brief Thomson Book.

All Students- SCC Coffeehouse Open-Mic Night Thursday/Colloquia Opportunity

2009-02-09T11:20:00.019-06:00

The SCC Coffeehouse, an Open-Mic night for poets, prose writers, song writers, and creative non-fiction writers to share their creativity, will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, in the auditorium of the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building at St. Charles Community College.

Organizers of The Coffeehouse open-mic night invite SCC students, faculty, staff, and the public to share their original selections, or to come to listen and enjoy the entertainment. Creative selections should be 5-7 minutes long. Complimentary coffee and cookies will be served.

"'The Coffeehouse is an open-mic opportunity for creative people to share what they’ve written – poetry, short fiction, essays, skits, song, and more,' Teddy Norris, event organizer and professor of English, said. 'The Coffeehouse brings them all under one roof and into the perfect setting to share their best work with others.'"

The SCC campus is located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. The open-mic night is free and open to the public.

For more information about The SCC Coffeehouse, call Norris at 636-922-8407 or visit the Coffeehouse Web site.

This is a great colloquia opportunity for Lindenwood Students.

Off Topic - Buying a Car Cheaper

2009-02-04T08:17:00.015-06:00

Some of the students in my night class were commenting on what a pain it is to buy a car and try to get the best deal. I saw CarBargains.com in the news recently, so I told them I'd share the link. I assure you they aren't paying me, but I'm thinking about using them when it's time to buy my next car. The press reviews of them are pretty impressive.

You do have to pay about $200 bucks to join, but most of the reviews say you get it back plus some. Even if you just break even, you don't have to face the sales pressure and still get a good price.

Lindenwood Students: The Library Class is On for Tonight

2009-01-28T15:15:00.005-06:00

Lindenwood is having night classes this evening, so I'll see you at the Spellman building. Be sure to bring some topics to research for your paper.

Info on School Closings - All Students at St. Charles and Lindenwood

2009-01-26T09:43:00.006-06:00

St. Charles Community College - Check local radio and television stations that announce school closings. I won't know in advance if the school has called off classes. I find out the same way students do - through these media outlets. Or if you sign up for the St. Charles Community College Emergency Alert System, you will receive a text message if classes are being cancelled due to weather or other issues. You will be charged for the text message according to your phone plan. The average charge is about 10 cents if you don't have an unlimited plan. This system is only used for emergency and closing info, so no general announcements will be sent through it.

As for work due, you should plan to do what was assigned for the cancelled class plus any readings assigned for the next class.

Lindenwood University - Check local radio and television stations. Night classes often aren't called until after 4 p.m., so be sure you check before leaving for class. You will receive a Lionwood email notifying you of any closings. You can also sign up for Lindenwood's Emergency Alert System. You will be charged for any text according to your phone plan. This system is only used for emergency and closing info, so no general announcements will be sent through it.

As for work due, you should plan to do what was assigned for the cancelled class plus any readings assigned for the next class.

Lindenwood Students: Reminders and Library Class

2009-01-25T16:37:00.005-06:00

Lindenwood Students:
Remember your Short Paper 2 is due tomorrow, with a sketch outline and first draft. We will also do the oral presentations at the beginning of class.

Library Class: We will meet in Spellman, room 3170 for our library orientation on Wednesday, January 28 at 6 p.m. Check the campus map for parking and directions, and be sure to sign in when you arrive so I can record your attendance. (It's building 31 on the map).

Let me know if you have questions.

FYI All St. Charles Community College Students: My Email Access

2009-01-25T16:27:00.001-06:00

Hi St. Charles students.

Just to let you know, the college hasn't given me the password for my email account yet, so I haven't been able to check my stchas mail. If you have an urgent question, you can forward it to triciagrissom@gmail.com.

I'll try to get my other account set up this week. See you in class.

All Students: The Reporter's Questions

2009-01-19T12:51:00.000-06:00

Here is a visual diagram of the Reporter's Questions.

Use the questions to help brainstorm on topics and discover what you know about them.

Short Paper 1 is due tonight. Please put it in a two-pocket folder with your name on the front, and include any drafts. Print it before you come to class, and make sure you follow MLA formatting.

Turnitin.com Class Number and Instructions for Lindenwood Winter 2009

2009-01-12T13:04:00.002-06:00

All major papers (Short Paper 1, Short Paper 2, Research Paper, Literature Paper) should be submitted to the website Turnitin.com on their due date.

The class number is as follows:
Monday Winter 2009 Communications Cluster 2567801

At the website, click on New Users, follow the instructions, and join the appropriate class. You will need the class number and password. Then when you're ready, you can submit your papers. I will give you the password in class, but if you forget, just email me. And let me know if you have any questions.

**If you have a late paper, contact me about extending the deadline.

Saturday Class Overview

2009-01-10T21:15:00.000-06:00

Read the assignments before you come to the class date they are listed on, (If you don't get the reading done for the first Saturday, no worries, but it's good to get a head start) and be prepared for discussion.

This schedule is subject to change according to the needs of the class. It is your responsibility to stay informed about these changes by contacting me or another student for notes when necessary. You are responsible for the work listed if you are absent. There will be additional assignments and readings as necessary.

(S/S refers to the book Subjects and Strategies)

January 10

Class Orientation and Overview
Journal 1: Answer the question “What do you want to learn from this class?”

Reading: S/S p. 1-31 44-48
A Writer’s Reference, Section G as needed with on-line exercises
Next week do online interactive grammar exercises under the headings
Basic Grammar and Grammatical Sentences (skip sentence types) by July 16.

Go to: http://bcs.bedfordstmartins.com/writersref6e/Player/Pages/Main.aspx and click on Grammar Exercises or click on the link to Writer’s Reference Website on our class blog. Report your results to tgrissom@lindenwood.edu when you create your profile.

Five Tips for Starting the Communications Cluster

2009-01-10T14:42:00.000-06:00

1. Fear Not
Many of you have been out of school for years or even decades. This is not necessarily a disadvantage. You are here to learn how to write papers. If you aren't sure how to do that, you are in exactly the right place.

2. Polish Your Skills
Some of you are already effective writers with several writing classes under your belt, but even the best writers can stand to review the rules once in awhile. So if you have a basic understanding of writing for college, use this class as an opportunity to make your writing even better and more polished.

3. Stock Up
You will need at least four two-pocket folders: Two for turning in assignments, one for class handouts, and one for storing research paper sources/info. You will also want a notebook for notes and plenty of pens.

4. Take Notes
Part of your participation is taking notes and staying informed on deadlines and other class details. Because you are allowed to use class notes on our tests, clear and comprehensive note taking can be a big advantage. When you start taking notes, put the class date at the top of the page and mark important/major points with stars or underlining to help keep them organized.

5. Read the Instructions
Many of the questions you might have can be answered by the handouts you get in class. I absolutely do not mind answering questions, but why wait for a response from me on an assignment if you already have it at your fingertips in a handout?

Featured Poet Cherie Browning

2008-12-26T15:47:00.000-06:00

Cherie Browning

December 3, 2008

A Day in the Life of Me

A day in the life of me

It’s so easy for one to see

How the stress of everyday life

Can easily get to me.

Waking up in the morning

To start the day,

Getting ready for work,

When I’d rather play.

Rushing out the door,

Praying I haven’t forgotten a thing,

Jumping in the car with the radio on

And ready to sing.

Rushing home after work,

With chores there waiting for me,

I just want to get it all done for

A day in the life of me.

Yep. We all feel like this once in awhile. And miles to go before I sleep...

Featured Poet Rick Turner

2008-12-24T15:57:00.002-06:00

Rick Turner
12/9/08

Swedish Massage

My head aches with the pain of homework overload.
I want a Swedish massage from my head down to my toes.
How bout a Swedish girl who can take my pain away
And help me find something to do on a cold and dreadful day.

My mind races with the thoughts of the happiness of fools,
While symphonies of love march down my avenue.
I listen to the beat, but the melody is cheap
Like the vodka in my drink.

Divine spark, divine justice plague my weary soul.
My spirit has amnesia, I’m dying of a cold.
I can’t get out of logic’s clear and empty snare.
While death is on the line, a choice I won’t declare.

My muscles tear while I wear my heart upon my sleeve.
I can’t take the easy way to find simple relief
From the net of practical living in a tipsy turvy world.
Whatever happened to my Swedish girl?

Love the line, "My spirit has amnesia, I'm dying of a cold." It captures that disconnection between your will and your body. Lots of interesting imagery to daydream the homework away.

Featured Poet Christy Straight

2008-12-23T15:38:00.001-06:00

Our Little Princess

You bring us so much joy
We love you with all our heart
You are our little princess,
Ever since the start

You came into this world
With those pretty bright blue eyes
You are our little princess,
Our very special prize

Each day you get bigger
Look how fast you’ve grown
You are our little princess,
A person of her own

Though some things may change
Please remember to see
You are our little princess,
And that you’ll always be

By Christy Straight

Many poets write to and about their children, with good reason. Every kid should know they're this loved.

Featured Poet Lynette Rush

2008-12-22T16:04:00.001-06:00

Life

The trail of life tends to twist and turn
The many pathways we look down
Our hearts, each gives a yearn
For something to relieve the frown
We may meet hardships on our way
Or sail down smooth descents
Make sure you do not have to pay
Or feel any resents
Push forward and be of good cheer
Don’t be dragged down by strife
Think only good thoughts year after year
Cherish what you have in life
You are only given one
Make the most of it, my son

I love the line "Or sail down smooth descents" It makes me think of park slides in the summertime.

Featured Poet Lisa Jacobs

2008-12-22T15:31:00.001-06:00

“45 Minutes”

Settled in above the poorly lit landscape,
The bitter cold peels away at my many layers.
As the sun begins to rise over another season,
I ponder, as always, why I have come.

My growing resentment interrupted
By sudden movement in the field below.
His long, white fingers wave at me
From the brush, and then they are gone.

My heart pumps harder, erasing the cold
And replacing the peaceful quite of this place
With the deafening beat of the drum.
I can no longer think, instinct taken over.

Foolishly, he reveals himself upon the path.
Uncertainty creeps in for but a moment,
Dismissed by an exhale, a squint,
And the slow squeeze of the trigger.

BANG! Death comes to him
As he drops instantly from my view.
The expected remorse does not come.
My father’s dream; the hunter.

I love this confessional poem about Lisa's experience deer hunting with her Dad. Especially the line "The bitter cold peels away at my many layers." You can just feel the wind frisking her.

Grades Are Now Posted

2008-12-22T15:29:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone. Hope you're having a great holiday.

Grades are now posted for Fall 2008, and you should be able to access them through your Lindenwood portal.

Featured Poet Cherie Ellis

2008-12-16T11:28:00.000-06:00

Cherie Ellis
5 December 2008

Life

Life comes and goes quickly
Don’t let it pass you by
Cherish every moment
So the past won’t make you cry
Remember what is special
And forget about the lies

Protect the things that matter
Hold them inside your heart
Guide the people close to you
No matter where you start
Show them life is special
And bring them from the dark

Life comes and goes quickly
Don’ let it pass you by

This is a traditional carpe diem poem. Seize the day; appreciate your life now. I still want to see the other version, Cherie!

Featured Poet Blaine Chazelle

2008-12-15T13:36:00.003-06:00

Blaine Chazelle
December 3, 2008

Homeland

Is this where I should be?

Knee high to a grasshopper I ran the fields

It was an easy life of hard work

Where is seemed like time stood still

Back in the woods

We grew what we ate

And never let any waste

I remember it well the stars at night

Cows in the pasture

The sweet aroma of the swine

Now it's city light

And life at a 100mph

I’ll always wish for a simpler time

But I settle with this for now

I love the line "It was an easy life of hard work" Hard physical labor can be less taxing than thinking and worrying about paying the bills as a grown up. Remember than oxymoron thing people? That's this line. Two contradictory ideas next to each other. Excellent work, Blaine.

Review for Literature Skills Assessment & Email Problem

2008-12-12T10:30:00.000-06:00

FYI Due to technical problems, I haven't been able to access my campus email since Wednesday. If you have a question or want to send your poem, forward your email to triciagrissom@gmail.com

Test Review

1. Be able to explain the elements of short fiction in detail. Review the pages in our Literature book and include as much detail as possible.

2. Be able to extensively explain three ways poets construct their poems. (Information is in the chapter on a poet's means) Give examples. Rhyme, imagery, personification, alliteration, assonance, metaphor, similes, apostrophe...

3. Know the elements of drama and how drama differs from short fiction and poetry. Dialogue and Staging are the two principle differences - but how does the experience differ between reading a story and seeing a play?

All papers must be turned in the last class unless you have an approved incomplete. Bring a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your papers back after class concludes. Put your address as the return address on the envelope.

Poets Claimed for Oral Presentations and Class Update

2008-12-08T13:19:00.001-06:00

Remember Tuesday people, bring your graded journal back this week.

Both Classes: I will be collecting either your journals or the Literature paper this week.

I have added the Lit paper assignment to the Turnitin.com website. Submit the Lit paper to turnitin.com as you are printing it out this week or next week. You have until 24 hours after the last class to submit the paper; after that it will be counted as late and points will be deducted.

The following poets have been claimed so far:

Tuesday Class
Alan Ginsberg
Langston Hughes
Robert Frost
Dorothy Parker
Yusef Komunyakaa
Anne Sexton
Marge Piercy
Emily Bronte
Lewis Carroll
Galway Kinnell
Sylvia Plath
Wordsworth

Wednesday Class
Anne Sexton
Dylan Thomas
Dorothy Parker
Carl Sandburg
Robert Frost
Howard Nemerov
Sylvia Plath
Francesca Petrarca

Senior Moment

2008-12-03T14:47:00.000-06:00

Okay, Tuesday class. I just realized I didn't record your journal grades before I gave them back to you last night. So if you could bring your journals to class next week so I can record the grades, I would appreciate it.

Wednesday class, I have your journal grades recorded and will return journals to you tonight. See you then. Oh, and bring some lyrics to a song you like if you happen to read this blog. If you don't have time, you can write them from memory in class. A couple verses will do.

Turnitin.com Reminder

2008-11-25T13:19:00.000-06:00

Several people still have not submitted their research papers to Turnitin.com!

I won't be returning your graded research paper to you until the paper is submitted (yes, I'm holding them hostage), so try to get it in before 4 p.m. today so I can check before I leave for class. If you have already submitted it successfully, please disregard.

Class Reminder: Thanksgiving Schedule

2008-11-24T08:21:00.002-06:00

Remember both classes meet on Tuesday this week. Journals 5-8 are due, as well as the literature stories. Bring your own munchies. The specifics are here.

Research Paper Option Now Posted at Turnitin.com and Class Reminders

2008-11-19T08:11:00.000-06:00

Don't forget to submit the final draft of your research paper to turnitin.com. I just posted the assignment so if you tried to do so previously and it didn't work, now it should.

Remember next week's class is combined and will meet at the St. Charles campus in the Cultural Center. See the previous blog post for directions. And remember your next set of journals is due next week and all grammar exercises should be finished by then as well.

Oh and FYI Wednesday class - the Tuesday class is asking if you might bring food to bribe them for crashing their night :) Maybe I'll bring some Chex Mix for everyone.

Thanksgiving Week Schedule for Fall 2008

2008-11-12T13:19:00.002-06:00

As we discussed, we will be combining my two classes for the week of Thanksgiving.

All Wednesday night students should attend the Tuesday night class on November 25, 2008 at Lindenwood's St. Charles campus. We meet in the Cultural Center, Room 107. That's the church-like building where you attended orientation the first Saturday at 8:00 a.m. Consult the campus map if you need a reminder.

When entering the Cultural Center from the side street entrance, go up the stairs and then make a right down the first hallway on your right. Go down the stairs, then proceed to the end of the hallway and turn left. Room 107 is the last classroom on the left.

Class will not meet on Wednesday, November 26, 2008. Let me know if you have any questions.

Topics to Review for Research Writing Skills Test

2008-11-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Finding a Research Topic
If you were assigned another research paper, what steps would you take to find a topic to write about? (Basically I'm looking for you to describe what you did in Assignments #1-3 of the research project)

Evaluating Sources
How do you evaluate sources? What makes them good quality sources?

Formal Research Writing
Research writing is more formal than other types of writing. Explain some differences between informal essay writing and research writing.

Paraphrasing, Summarizing, and Quoting
You get sources into your paper using these three methods. Define each and explain why and how use them in a research paper.

Logos, Ethos, Pathos
These are three ways to persuade an audience. Define them and give examples. Review three ways to argue.

Logical Fallacies
These are arguments with bad logic. They are often used because they fool people, but good sources won't have logical fallacies and you shouldn't use them in your own writing. Be familiar with at least 4 common fallacies.

Responding to the Other Side
You can acknowledge or refute the opposing side's arguments. How do you do this and why does it help persuade your audience?

Signal Phrases
Signal phrases introduce quotations into your paper, often by explaining what the source of evidence is or the name and qualifications of the expert you are quoting. Know how to use them and give an example.

Brackets and Ellipses
These are tools to help you handle quotations in a research paper. Ellipses allow you to leave out part of a quote, and brackets go around anything you added to a quotation to help your audience understand it. Know how and why to use [sic] also.

In-text Citations
These are citations used within your writing to show where source information came from. You either mention the source in your writing or add it in parenthesis at the end of the sentence. Give examples of in-text citations and show where the punctuation goes when using an in-text citation at the end of a sentence. Also explan how it connects to the Works Cited.

Help Formatting MLA Sources

2008-10-28T13:25:00.001-05:00

For those of you who didn't get this last night, check out easybib.com for help formatting your research paper sources for assignment #3 and the final paper's Works Cited. You can put your sources in MLA, then export them to Word.