HSC 085 - Writing Fundamentals

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
Students will work on skill development in writing. Using the writing process, students will practice expository and persuasive writing aimed at a variety of audiences. Students will prepare for success on the High School Proficiency Examination (HSPE) writing examination required for high school graduation in Washington State. To do so, students will use resources developed by the Washington State Office of State Superintendent of Instruction (OSPI), including portions of a four week curriculum designed for HSPE test takers.
Course Outcomes:

Demonstrate understanding of different writing forms, particularly persuasive and expository.
Apply a variety of introduction, conclusion, and transition strategies.
Write a manageable thesis and maintain consistent focus.
Use persuasive writing strategies, such as Causal Chain, Concession/Rebuttal, and Problem/Solution.
Using the State of Washington writing rubric, we will continually hold up writing pieces to the 1-4 range, with the understanding that a 3 meets state standards.

Course Topics:

Topic Selection.
The Writing Process.
Paragraph Structure.
Elaboration.
Grammar Review/Common Errors.
Sentence Structure.
Punctuation.
Moving from Paragraph to Essay (Introductions, Conclusions, Transitions).
Writing to Explain.
Writing to Persuade.