Block A2 Written Communications

Criteria for Evaluating Block A2 Written Communications GE Course Proposals

In general, course proposals for courses submitted as satisfying specific general education requirements must provide:

  • Clear evidence that student learning outcomes specific to the block or GE requirement are being taught and assessed
  • Course content in outline that demonstrates adequate time devoted to teaching and assessing the outcomes
  • Evidence of specific training, currency and/or experience in the basic intellectual and pedagogic competencies in the specific block or designated area

GE Governing Principles

Proposal clearly demonstrates that the course

  • Requires the practice and evaluation of writing in English, including, where appropriate, library assignments
  • Provides ample opportunity for students to be active learners in their educational experience
  • Does not require a non-General Education prerequisite

If the response to any of the GE governing principles above is No, the course will be returned unapproved.

Block or GE Requirement Student Learning Outcomes

Proposal clearly demonstrates that student learning outcomes are being taught and assessed sufficiently

  • Apply fundamental rhetorical strategies used to produce university-level writing, especially
    • modify content and form according to the rhetorical situation, purpose, and audience
    • appropriately use authorities, examples, facts, and other forms of persuasive evidence to support an argument or position
    • vary stylistic options to achieve different effects
  • Think critically to analyze a rhetorical situation or text and make thoughtful decisions based on that analysis, through writing, reading, and research
  • Develop an effective writing process that includes flexible strategies for generating, revising, editing, and proof-reading
  • Incorporate textual evidence through quotation, summary, and paraphrase into their essays and appropriately cite their sources
  • Develop knowledge of genre conventions ranging from structure and paragraphing to tone and style
  • Control such surface features as syntax, grammar, punctuation, and spelling
  • Use electronic environments for drafting, reviewing, revising, editing, and sharing texts

Implementation and Assessment

Proposal or supplemental materials provide evidence of

  • Specific training, currency and/or experience in the basic intellectual and pedagogic competencies in the specific block or designated area