PLEASE NOTE: We will use the same zoom info as before, since everyone eventually could get on.  You can view this information on our class Blackboard, which you are automatically signed in to.  If you have problems with the passcode, you can get in by just clicking on the link to the Zoom.  I think it will cause more confusion if I make a whole new link.

MONDAY AUG 31– OPTIONAL ZOOM MEETING 2-3 PM

WEDS SEPT 2– REQUIRED ZOOM MEETING!  2-3 PM

Homework Due by noon, Weds Sept 2: 

TAKE SURVEY: Please take the online technology survey (below), if you haven’t already!  This will help me know what kind of access everyone in the course has to technology so I can plan accordingly.  Thanks! 

READ:  Read the course syllabus on Google Docs  HERE. On the google doc, please make at least one comment on the syllabus– this can be a question about anything you’re confused about, or anything else (polite) that you would like to say.  If you’re confused about how to comment on a google doc, you can watch THIS video. If you don’t have a google account, you’ll have to sign up for one, but it only takes a second.

MAKE:  A message to your end-of-the-semester self and post this to the Openlab as a “new post.”  (category: Intro) In this time capsule, I want you to send a message to your end-of-the semester self about your goals, your hopes for the year, and maybe some pitfalls you feel you might be up against.  Please also think about how writing will help you achieve your future goals– not just for the end of the semester, but beyond.  

One catch: it can’t be just writing– there have to be some images or sounds in there!  Whatever you think will help us get to know you and your experiences better. You can even make a video. Or record an audio file and link to it. Or draw something and upload the image. Whatever you want. Remember: we’re all about composing in the 21st century, so feel free to do what you think would be interesting for us to see/hear/learn about. 

Due by noon, Friday Sept 4

GET TO KNOW: Look at your colleagues’ time capsules and start a conversation!  Make at least two comments.  Kind comments only!

READ: “How to Read Like a Writer” by Mike Bunn. 

In this article, Bunn says that his students suggests that the advice they would give to future students is that they  “write yourself notes and summaries both during and after reading.” So I’d like you to do that. Please take out a piece of paper and a pen (or pencil) and have it beside you as you read.  Just write down whatever stands out to you from the text– jot down a few key words.  Doodle! Write a summary. Write a question. There are no right or wrong answers here.  

 https://wac.colostate.edu/docs/books/writingspaces2/bunn–how-to-read.pdf

WRITE:  On the website, write a post of at least 300 words discussing the following questions. You can also post the picture of your notes from the reading in this same post: 

  • In his article, Mike Bunn writes “You are already an author.” He’s talking to you.  What do you think he means by this? What are some of the things you write already?  (Hint: “Nothing” is not an acceptable answer.) Think of all of the ways you already use words in your everyday life.  That’s authorship! How will that existing expertise help you in your college reading and writing career?
  • Was there anything you noticed in Bunn’s article that you would like to try to do in your own writing? What, in particular? Please be specific!