Learning Goals and Objectives

Upon completion of a B.A. in English, a graduate will be able to do the following:

Goal I: Write analytically and creatively, that is to express ideas clearly and incisively in their writing in ways required both inside and outside of the academy.

To accomplish this goal a student will be able to:

• compose a well-constructed essay that develops a clearly defined claim of interpretation which is supported by close textual reading.
• employ effective rhetorical strategies in order to persuasively present ideas and perspectives.
• utilize literary terminology, critical methods, and various lenses of interpretation in their writing.
• apply the rules of English grammar.
• adhere to the the formatting and documenting conventions of our discipline.

Goal II: Analyze a broad range of literatures written in English (including representative authors and major literary periods), recognizing their temporal, social, political, and artistic contexts.

To accomplish this goal a student will be able to:

• interpret and critically evaluate texts of various genres, forms, and historical periods.
• demonstrate knowledge of the historical context of a work or author.
• choose an appropriate critical approach through which to analyze a given text.
• describe a range of literary techniques and rhetorical strategies used in a variety of texts, including their relationship to audience, purpose, and cultural contexts/constraints.

Goal III: Use effectively a range of writing, reading, and research strategies applicable to multiple disciplines.

To accomplish this goal a student will be able to:

• integrate primary and secondary sources into their writing.
• employ methods of active reading, including annotating, summarizing, questioning, and synthesizing.
• locate and critically evaluate print and electronic sources.
• utilize current technologies to assist in the research and presentation of critical and creative writing.