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ELIT 11
Introduction to Poetry
4 Units
Course Description:
ELIT 11 is a 4 unit literature course focused on the intensive study of poetry through the reading, discussion, and analysis of the structure and meaning of poems representing various literary genres, histories, and styles. Poem selection will include poetic texts diverse in subject, form, and structure and will represent poets from wide perspectives of culture, history, race, class, and sexuality
Green Sheet (Syllabus)
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Tentative Outline
Course Goals:
- Examine the nature, variety, and varying contexts of poetic texts
- Distinguish among intellectual, emotional, and moral aspects of poetry
- Identify and qualitatively analyze the internal and external structure of poetry
- Acknowledge and account for alternative textual interpretations
- Compare the cultural meaning and aesthetic value of poetic texts in a variety of human communities
- Develop a practical application for the oral tradition of poetry
Required Texts/Materials:
- The Norton Introduction to Poetry (8th ed.), edited by J. Paul Hunter
- A Journal (a spiral notebook or anything you like)
- A collection of poems by a poet of your choice
- A dictionary or use www.m-w.com
Assignments:
- In-Class Essays (3): 30 points each
- Exams (2): 25 points each
- Mid-Term Exam: 60 points
- Group Reach Project: 40 points
- Participation: 100 points (attendance, small-group work, class discussion, and weekly on-line contributions)
- Journal: 100 points
- Final Project: 60 points
Evaluation :
Your grade for the course will be based on the following points:
(possible 500 points)
Journal:
The process of developing a keen awareness and understanding of poetry is detailed, introspective, and cumulative; therefore, you will keep an analytical and personal journal throughout this course. In your journal you will be expected to write a detailed analysis of at least 5 of the assigned poems from each week’s reading list. At the beginning of your process you will be given a “rubric” of questions to answer about each poem; however, as your poetic awareness increases you may choose to expand beyond these questions, and be inspired to answer some of your own questions about the poem. You may also wish to respond creatively to these weekly poems, which is accepted and encouraged as you develop your literary mind. It is also perfectly acceptable to follow the “rubric” of questions throughout the quarter. Because poetry is often deeply personal, some poems will influence you more than others. Therefore, some journal entries may be longer than others, but on average you should write approximately one page per poem.
It is important to bring your journal to class because every Thursday we will begin class by sharing the journal entries from the week in small groups. Also, in-class free writing will be done in your journal.
Attendance:
Attendance every day is required. If you have four unexcused absences, I will assume that you have Withdrawn, and give you a W. If there is a legitimate reason for your absence, you must call or e-mail to excuse yourself on that day. You are not permitted to make up any in-class assignments (quizzes, in-class writing, and group work) if you have an unexcused absence. If you are forced to miss a class, it is your responsibility to obtain any handout, assignment, or information I gave out in class. I suggest getting the phone numbers of a few classmates so you won’t miss any assignments.
Participation:
Elit 11 is a discussion-based course, and your class “presence” will be public and is graded regularly. Plan on being prepared and involved in both small group and class discussion because you will be expected to participate. If you remain passive, you will do poorly.
Honesty:
I am interested in your ideas as well as how clearly you can discuss the ideas of others. Plagiarized work, even a key word in a sentence or someone else’s published idea, which is not properly documented, will result in a failing grade for the assignment. A case of extensive plagiarism (full paragraphs lifted from someone else’s work), repeated plagiarism, or “recycling” a paper will result in a failing grade for the class. If you are uncertain about the rules for using a source, come and see me before you turn in the assignment. If you fail a class due to plagiarism it will appear on your academic record.
Note: This is an adult level course; therefore the subject matter of readings, films, and discussions will contain adult material and will not be censored.
If you have any special circumstances which you feel will affect your performance in this class (a diagnosed learning ability, a physical disability, or anything at all that might interfere with your learning), please come speak to me as soon as possible—we will create a learning environment that works for you.
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