English 401B – Advanced Non-Fiction

Writing of nonfiction modes from the classical essay to contemporary imaginative prose.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. assemble a polished writing portfolio targeted to specific professional writing goals, using effective drafting, revision, and editing strategies in several nonfiction genres.
2. revise effectively for style, using readers’ feedback, with attention to such qualities as clarity, concision, coherence, and variety.
3. conduct rhetorical inquiry into professional and academic contexts and purposes for advanced nonfiction writing.
4. critically discuss key genres and documents of creative nonfiction and professional writing—such as narrative journalism, memoir, proposal, and investigative report.
5. conduct appropriate research for assigned topics and effectively incorporate research results into their creative and professional writing.
6. provide constructive response to the manuscripts of other writers.
7. list, use, and evaluate resources that assist with developing and revising nonfiction writing for various settings and publication venues.
8. produce oral and written reflections on ethical issues in creative nonfiction and professional writing.