Focusing on the writers of the Harlem Renaissance, students will learn how to develop complex interpretations of literary texts, interpretations that address the work’s language and form as well as the contexts surrounding its production.

Students in the course work toward several goals: learning how to conduct formal and contextual literary analyses and developing as critical thinkers and writers.  Course activities promote active learning, with most class sessions including a mix of mini-lectures, discussion, short writing exercises, and group work.  My role is to provide the tools and resources you will need to advance your own thinking and writing.  I will pose questions, design activities to help you think through these questions, and respond to your ideas.  Your role is to do the hard work—the critical reading, discussion, and writing.  You will analyze texts, generate ideas in electronic and face-to-face discussions, develop presentations with your peers, construct written arguments, and use feedback to revise those arguments. 

English 200 is computer-integrated; students will use the computer as a communication and textual study tool.  However, technical savvy is not a course prerequisite.  Students will receive instruction in all technical tools used in the classroom.