On Monday, January 31, we will…

READ:

  • Sign up for OpenLab site and join this course.
  • Review the class site: be sure to read the introduction to the course, look over the syllabus, and open and review all course tabs/sections.
  • Review: “Tips for Success” on “The OpenLab for Students.” (Hover over the titles–the links are embedded!)

During and after class, students will WRITE about Core Values…

  • Write three short paragraphs about the following:
  • Paragraph 1: Define one of your core values. What does the importance of this value in your life say about you?
    • Examples of core values: being creative, family, friendships, political engagement, independence, gaining knowledge, athletic ability, community, culture, music, spiritual or religious values, sense of humor. (Feel free to name one that isn’t listed–these are just a few!)
  • Paragraph 2: How does this value relate to your goals for the future?
  • Paragraph 3: How will improving your writing and communication skills help you achieve these goals?
  • Start writing these paragraphs by Wednesday and be ready to post whatever you’ve written so far on OpenLab. Title it Full Name, Core Values and save it under Introductory Work.
    • We’ll talk in class about how to post assignments on Wednesday, but if you want to get it done early, here’s a tutorial that will guide you. (You have to have registered and joined this class before you can create a post!)

Before class on Wednesday, February 2, READ & WATCH…

During class, we’ll DISCUSS the following questions (keep these questions in mind as you read)…

  • In Amy Tan’s ‘Mother Tongue,’ Tan writes, “Recently, I was made keenly aware of the different Englishes I do use.”
    • What are these different Englishes; when, where and how does she use them?
    • What does this piece illustrate about Tan’s responsibility to and feelings about her different communities and the way she moves between these groups?
    • Who do you think would benefit or be interested in reading this piece? Why?

During and after class, students will (otherwise known as homework)…

WRITE: Thinking About Community

  • Respond to the Discussion Question “Mother Tongue & Code Switching: Language and Community”: Think about language and the different ways you communicate or speak. Choose a word or phrase that you use with one group of people (family, friends, co-workers, etc.) that would not be understood by a different group of people in your life. What is the meaning of this word or phrase and how would you explain it to someone who is an outsider to the group who uses it?
    • Don’t create a post, simply make a comment on the question on our site! Don’t know how to add a comment? Click here.
  • Post your completed Full Name, Core Values under Introductory Work by class time on Monday.
  • Read John Swales, “Reflections on the Concept of Discourse Community” before Monday’s class.
  • While you’re reading Swales’ work, find two quotes you find compelling. Write down each quotation and then explain what you found interesting (or even confusing). You MUST do this before we meet on Monday in order to actively participate in class!
  • Review Butte College, “Double-Entry Reading Journals” before Monday’s class.