Topic: Reading Like an English Major

Meet in computer lab A 405.

Assigned Text: Foster (1-3, 5)

How to Read Literature Like a Professor sections 1-3, 5.

Key Concept: Close Reading

A close reading is a careful, thorough, sustained examination of the words that make up a text.

In a close reading, a literary work is not so much a window to look through, nor is it a mirror to reflect yourself. Instead, you look closely at the language the author chose, in order to analyze what the author has accomplished.

Note: Close reading is always re-reading.

Topic: Introduction to Weblogs

All students will receive their own personal online journals (weblogs) at blogs.setonhill.edu.

In class: Post a quotation from the assigned readings, and briefly state what you would talk about if called on to lead a brief class discussion about your quotation. (That's your "agenda item" -- see the course FAQ page.)

Experienced bloggers, please help classmates if necessary... this is just practice today.

Due Today: Ex 1-1a: Diagnostic Essay (10pts)

In a draft of about 2 pages (roughly 500 words), convey your relationship to literature and the English language. Bring 2 printed copies to class, and upload your Word document to J-Web in the slot for Ex 1-1a. (That slot will close 30 minutes before class starts.)