How does language shape us? How do we learn it? Who is it meant for? How does language
privilege some over others? How does language affect memory? How does language change over time?
We will discuss these questions and more over the course of the semester, both in class and on this blog.
This site is a shared opportunity between two classes, where you will learn a little about language and
you will learn a little about each other.
The Assignment
You are responsible for posting 24 reflective comments throughout the course of the semester that
demonstrate critical thinking skills. Your comments may be
on the post itself or on someone else's comment. All comments will be assessed on the full credit scale.
Only planned, well-thought out, edited comments will receive full credit. Whenever you want to know how
many comments I have recorded for you, I will respond to email
inquiries only.
Please remember that this is not a forum for attacking - this is a forum for expansion and thought.
There should be no derisive comments made at any point to your peers. Also, please keep in mind safe
internet habits. Sign your posts with a first name and last initial and do not reveal personal
information such as phone numbers, addresses, or bank information.
I am offering extra credit throughout the semester for anyone who notices language use outside of the
class that relates to what we are discussing in class. This could be a film, a billboard, a conversation
with a parent...anything that you can connect to our conversations. First, you will talk to me about it
to discuss the direction you will take when you write it and what I expect before giving you extra
credit. Then you will write up a two page explanation of
the language use and how it relates to class (your write-up should contain far more analysis and connection
to class than synopsis) and turn it in to me before finals week begins.
There is another chance for extra credit! Submit your letters to the editor to The Arbiter and bring me the edition of the
paper that contains your letter. You will receive credit for one informal writing assignment.
PLEASE NOTE THIS CHANGE TO THE SYLLABUS: Your syllabus currently says that there will be class on November 16 but not on
November 14. Please switch those dates. There WILL be class on November 14 and there WILL NOT be class on November 16.
Anything currently listed as homework due on November 16 is now due on November 14.
There is a second change to the syllabus!
101 - We will meet Nov. 7 instead of Nov. 5. Your portfolio is now due Nov. 5.
102 - Your portfolio is now due during your group conference.
Monday, November 27, 2006
After watching this video, I would like to hear your comments on the idea of the gender spectrum. I'd like to note that what this person says is not new - the theory of multiple genders and ambiguous genders has been around for some time and is hardly disputed among people who honestly consider the notion. Think about it: if you're a girl, do you enjoy sports? Have you ever appreciated a car for being a tremendous piece of machinery? Do you sometimes refuse to communicate openly or cry in front of others? If you're a boy, do you care that your clothes are ironed and look nice when you put them on? Do you like children? Do you put some sort of product into your hair in the morning? These are things we consider along the gender path, but don't usually think of ourselves as "mixed up" along gender lines.
If you decide you would like to comment on jessanastasia's blog, as he offers, click here.
