The First-Year Writing Seminar introduces students to the conventions of reading and writing appropriate for liberal arts learning, in particular the ability to analyze and produce sophisticated arguments, proposals, reports, analyses and other academic genres that position their views within ongoing social and cultural questions. Students read and discuss challenging texts, evaluating text styles, conclusions, and evidence. They also draft and revise essays that reflect deeper critical thought, an effective prose style, an ability to evaluate outside research to complement their writing and consideration of an audience’s expectations. The course offers students frequent written and oral feedback on their writing and prepares students for the Second-Year Writing Seminar by providing guidance for students to incorporate multiple print and electronic resources into their writing.
Students must earn a C- or higher to satisfy University degree requirements.