Thursday:
The class read the syllabus. We went through research project dates. Based on the research project dates, students are now in the topic selection phase of the research paper. Students have until the 25th to choose a topic. The instructor will present topics at the next class. In addition, students can work with their own choice of topic but it must be approved by the instructor. Chapter 2 of Lester helps students decide if their topic choice is likely to make for a successful research paper project.
The instructor also said that drama will be the first literary form with which we will work in class. The play is "Defying Gravity." Students may also choose another play--off-Broadways, Broadway, or other plays being presented in NJ.
In addition to going over topics at the next class, we will also exchange names and phone numbers in case another student needs to be contacted for information on the class.
Numerous students asked about their topic and the instructor advised on whether it would be a topic with potential or whether the student needed to develop a certain portion of the topic.
What to do for the next class: read Lester, Chapter 1, "Finding a Scholarly Topic."
Read, read, and read for a topic for the paper.
Tuesday
The instructor reviewed a second book for use in the class but the class decided they wanted to stick with Lukeman. She also reviewed what was to be done for classes this week.
Because students were to think of ideas for their research paper, the instructor assigned Lester, Chapter 1, which has to do with scholarly topics. Students are to read the chapter and use the information to help determine whether their choice of topic is appropriate.
If a student does not have a topic, the instructor will supply a list of topics from which to choose.
The instructor handed out a writing sample and gave the students approximately one hour to write an essay on their choice of the three topics. The writing samples will not be returned but the instructor will apprise the class of what she found in the samples. The samples serve as a "benchmark" for the instructor to measure the progress of students throughout the semester.
Students should refer to this post later for their copy of the syllabus. A hard copy will be distributed. In addition, students should begin reading Lester, Chapter 1. At the next class, students will review the syllabus and do paired introductions.
