{"id":898,"date":"2020-03-22T00:39:21","date_gmt":"2020-03-22T00:39:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-jefferson-sciencefictionandfantasy\/?post_type=chapter&p=898"},"modified":"2020-03-22T12:17:48","modified_gmt":"2020-03-22T12:17:48","slug":"sample-syllabus","status":"web-only","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-jefferson-sciencefictionandfantasy\/chapter\/sample-syllabus\/","title":{"raw":"Sample Syllabus","rendered":"Sample Syllabus"},"content":{"raw":"This syllabus is from ENG 243: Science Fiction and Fantasy.\u00a0 The OER does not include material on fantasy other than in Part 3 on Romanticism.\r\n

Jefferson Community College<\/p>\r\n

Watertown, NY 13601<\/strong><\/p>\r\nEnglish 243: Science Fiction and Fantasy<\/strong>\r\n\r\nContact Hours:\u00a0 3\r\n\r\nCredit Hours:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 3\r\n\r\nType of Hours:\u00a0 Lecture\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Prerequisite: English 102\r\n\r\nCourse Description<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nEnglish 243 is a literature elective which provides a survey of major readings in science fiction and fantasy literature. Reading selections will reflect the major literary movements within these speculative fiction genres. Students will become familiar with significant economic, political, and social influences on texts and will engage in oral and written literary analysis, interpreting a variety of representative texts.\r\n\r\nInstructional Goals<\/strong>\r\n\r\nEnglish 243 students will\r\n

    \r\n \t
  1. Read actively, synthesize effectively, and respond critically to assigned science fiction and fantasy literature;<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. Demonstrate how to apply basic literary terminology and methodology to interpret literature using textual references and relevant commentary;<\/li>\r\n \t
  3. Discuss and write about prominent science fiction and fantasy authors, texts, and varying time periods;<\/li>\r\n \t
  4. Explore the literature\u2019s distinctive social, cultural, and historical\/political influences;<\/li>\r\n \t
  5. Complete diverse writing assignments, other than formal essays, designed to develop their analytical and interpretive skills;<\/li>\r\n \t
  6. Write formal, literature-based essays that support arguable theses in clear, interesting, and appropriately developed styles for an academic audience;<\/li>\r\n \t
  7. Employ Standard American English and correct grammatical structure, integrate citations from literary texts into their writing, and document these texts according to MLA style;<\/li>\r\n \t
  8. Demonstrate increasing autonomy in achieving each of these goals.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nCourse Methods<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThese may include, but are not limited to, the following:\r\n
      \r\n \t
    • Lectures<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Presentations<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Class discussions<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Audio-visual resources<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Group investigation and discussion<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Live productions<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Guest speakers<\/li>\r\n \t
    • Oral interpretation of texts<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nEvaluation<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThe English Faculty\u2019s policy is to require formal and informal literary analysis as the primary means of evaluation. The techniques for measuring student performance must be consistent with course goals and instructional methods. Individual instructors are expected to specify the number and types of assignments on their course outlines. One example is as follows:\r\n\r\nAnalysis Essays \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1650 points (33%)\r\n\r\nParticipation\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1450 points (29%)\r\n\r\nTests\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1400 points (28%)\r\n\r\nHomework and Quizzes\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 500 points (10%)\r\n\r\nImportant<\/strong>: You are evaluated on both process and product in this course.\u00a0 To earn passing credit on any essay, students must attach a complete rough draft\u2014defined as a paper using cited sources and of the required minimum length and source use\u2014to the discussion board by the due date listed in the schedule.\u00a0 Any final copy must reflect significant improvement from the rough draft.\r\n\r\nHomework and essays must be submitted as Word or RTF files in Times or Arial font.\u00a0 No other fonts are accepted.\u00a0 Pasted-in work or work in other file formats will not be considered, so save as a Word file in whichever program you use by selecting Word<\/em> under file type<\/em>.\r\n\r\nGrading Criteria<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThe English faculty approves the use of a grading grid for formal essays.\u00a0 A copy of this grid is posted in Course Information.\r\n\r\nCourse Topical Outline<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThe course must include, but is not limited to, the following topics:\r\n
        \r\n \t
      • Definition and classification of science fiction (e.g., space opera, AI, alternative history, alternative future, cyberpunk, feminist, dystopian, utopian)<\/li>\r\n \t
      • Definition and classification of fantasy literature (e.g., high fantasy, young adult, contemporary, dark fantasy, mythic, paranormal)<\/li>\r\n \t
      • Historical overview of science fiction and fantasy genres<\/li>\r\n \t
      • Methods of literary analysis<\/li>\r\n \t
      • Literary terminology<\/li>\r\n \t
      • Coverage of literary critical theory<\/li>\r\n \t
      • \u00a0Major themes in science fiction and fantasy<\/li>\r\n \t
      • Modern & postmodern economic, political, and social influences on science fiction<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nParticipation Expectations<\/strong>\r\n\r\nClasses in this format are not self-paced.\u00a0 Neither are they taken in isolation.\u00a0 Here is how the participation works.\r\n
          \r\n \t
        • You would write at least eight substantive postings to earn the basic (70% grade) grade for each board.\u00a0 Write more than eight posts to earn more than the average grade.\u00a0 To earn an A grade in a discussion, write more than eight posts.\u00a0 Participation is predicated on your doing more than the minimum.<\/li>\r\n \t
        • A timely presence matters. When any discussion board opens, you must post within forty-eight hours to avoid a penalty.\u00a0 Your activity level and consistency figure greatly in the grades you earn.<\/li>\r\n \t
        • Large gaps in posting activity are unacceptable.\u00a0 For each<\/strong> gap in activity of three full days or more between postings, you will lose one-third of the points for that discussion.\u00a0 Notice the each<\/em> there.\u00a0 Miss that many days three times and you\u2019d have no points\u2014even if you posted fifteen other times.\u00a0 Consistency matters.<\/li>\r\n \t
        • Responses to others, rough drafts, and peer edits\u2014if properly developed\u2014may count as quality discussion postings.<\/li>\r\n \t
        • Failing to peer edit others\u2019 (two edits) work results in a failing discussion score.<\/li>\r\n \t
        • Only<\/strong> posts with short sentences as subjects (see below) will count.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nEach post has two fields that you must complete correctly in order to get credit: Message and Subject.\u00a0 No matter how well written your message, if your subject isn\u2019t clear or acceptable, your post does not meet the criteria for acceptability.\u00a0 You will lose credit if you do not follow the two key rules below.\r\n\r\nRule #1: The message content of your posting must introduce relevant information which teaches us something new.<\/strong>\r\n\r\nYour job here is to provide new information which is appropriate to the issue being discussed.\r\n
            \r\n \t
          1. Is your message accurate?<\/li>\r\n \t
          2. Is it relevant to the issue under discussion?\u00a0 How so?<\/li>\r\n \t
          3. Did you teach us anything new?<\/li>\r\n \t
          4. Have you added to the academic atmosphere of the course?<\/li>\r\n \t
          5. Is your information properly cited using MLA format?\u00a0 (This includes any summaries, paraphrases, or quotes\u2014even of other students\u2019 postings.)<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nNote: <\/strong>Saying \u201cYes, I totally agree\u201d is a non-informative message that, while it might be good for the class social environment, adds nothing to the teaching presence<\/strong> (knowledge) of the course.\r\n\r\nRule #2: The subject line for your posting must be a short complete sentence which conveys the point of your message.<\/strong>\r\n\r\nCreate a sentence-form subject line for your discussion postings that conveys the main point.\u00a0 It is not enough to use a keyword as your subject; use a short sentence (a complete sentence, but not more than about 10 words) summarizing the message\u2019s main point. Write the subject after creating the message.\u00a0 <\/strong>\r\n\r\nThis requirement accomplishes two goals:\r\n
              \r\n \t
            1. It requires the writer to think about and clearly state the main point of the message.\u00a0 The author must have a clear understanding of the material; this aids in learning and memory.<\/li>\r\n \t
            2. It provides the reader with advance information which is helpful in organizing and learning the message content.\u00a0 Readers should be able to determine the essence of your comment just by reading your subject<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nLate Paper\/Late Work Policy<\/strong>\r\n\r\nNo late work will be accepted without prior permission<\/strong>.\u00a0 Essays are due by the end of the day (11:59 Eastern Standard Time) on the due dates listed in the schedule.\u00a0 <\/strong>Give me reasonable time to respond to your request that I accept the work late.\u00a0 Late papers accepted under those circumstances would lose 10% for every day they are late.\u00a0 Notify me promptly by email if you use a boon: jdickinson@sunyjefferson.edu\r\n\r\nPrinter\/computer problems or lack of access to the text are not acceptable excuses for failing to turn in work.\r\n\r\nExcessive absences (of a week more) without communication with the professor are not allowed.\u00a0 In nearly all situations, you are able to contact me promptly.\u00a0 If a situation arises, let me know as soon as possible.\u00a0 I will not entertain requests that you be allowed to complete a course after a month\u2019s absence, for example.\r\n\r\nImportant<\/strong>\r\n\r\nWhen a draft is due and you don\u2019t submit it on time, the discussion board and final copy grades are failing.\u00a0 Grading for the late essay\u2019s final copy begins at 59%.\u00a0 Students may not opt out of major assignments; no further work will be accepted till the essay is submitted and evaluated.\r\n\r\nI reserve the right to treat late work on a case-by-case basis.\u00a0 Absences are covered in the College Catalog<\/em>; what you may think is an acceptable absence probably isn\u2019t . . . Read that policy carefully.\r\n\r\nAcceptable Academic Sources<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAll assignments have acceptable source guidelines on the assignment sheets.\u00a0 Internet searches often lead to nonacademic information resources, such as Wikipedia.org, Encarta, eHow.com, Shmoop.com, Ask.com, Encarta.msn.com, Infoplease.com, etc. These sources may not be used, as they are not academic.\r\n\r\nCivility<\/strong>\r\n\r\nJefferson Community College believes that all persons should be extended civility and respect, regardless of factors such as opinion\/view, institutional role, race, religion, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation or age. Teaching and learning are the focus of Jefferson Community College. Accordingly, the College is committed to creating and maintaining positive learning and working environments both in and out of the academic classroom.\r\n\r\nWhile it is understood that disagreement will and should occur in a collegiate setting, open communication, intellectual integrity, mutual respect for differing viewpoints, freedom from unnecessary disruption\/disorder, and a climate of civility are important institutional values.\r\n\r\nAcademic Honesty<\/strong>\r\n\r\nYou will not present any ideas, patterns of reasoning, or others' words as your own work.\u00a0 Anything that is quoted, summarized or paraphrased must be documented properly in MLA style.\u00a0 For instance, if a student failed to quote direct use of a source's words, they would create a plagiarism situation even if the work was cited<\/em>, since the lack of quotes indicates that your words were used.\u00a0 Plagiarism will result in a failing grade for the assignment or for the course.\r\n\r\nWe assume that all ideas and facts in your reports are your own unless you cite a source (oral or written, professional or student), using MLA documentation style.\u00a0 Any words not in quotes are yours; if you fail to quote others\u2019 words\u2014even if you cite\u2014this creates a plagiarism situation.\u00a0 These are easily spotted and dealt with.\u00a0 You had best police yourself before I have to.\u00a0 Ignorance of the rules is not an excuse, and neither is the idea that you were just \u201cgetting inspiration\u201d from a source.\u00a0 (While the course is gamified, this plagiarism tracking is not the sort of game I enjoy.\u00a0 It is easy for me and a student\u2019s bad choices will be spotted, but I don\u2019t enjoy this nonsense.)\r\n\r\nStudents engaging in plagiarism are subject to at least a \u201czero\u201d grade for that assignment.\u00a0 With severe cases of plagiarism, students may be withdrawn from the course with an \u201cF.\u201d\u00a0 This policy is your warning to avoid plagiarism. If serious plagiarism occurs, a letter indicating the plagiarism is placed in your student file.\r\n\r\nI reserve the right to deal with plagiarism on a case-by-case basis.\u00a0 I may revisit and regrade earlier assignments found plagiarized if a later assignment contains plagiarism.\r\n\r\nEach of your essays must reflect new writing for this class only<\/strong>. Such work earns no points.\u00a0 Essays previously written for high school or for another course will not be accepted.\u00a0 You may not double up an essay for this and another class, as this is a form of self-plagiarism.\u00a0 Students may not reuse source data from previous papers.\r\n\r\nThe College Catalog<\/em> covers the College\u2019s academic honesty policy: \u201cIt is expected that all work you submit is entirely<\/strong> your own unless you have given another source credit using MLA guidelines.\u00a0 All forms of plagiarism require disciplinary action, which may range from earning no credit for an assignment to failing the course to expulsion from the College.\u201d\u00a0 Consult the College Catalog<\/em> for additional details.\r\n\r\nAvoiding Plagiarism<\/strong>\r\n
                \r\n \t
              • If in doubt about whether you must cite or not, cite the work.<\/li>\r\n \t
              • Cite as you write the paper so that you do not have to go back and guess at what was used where.<\/li>\r\n \t
              • Work on adding signal phrases (or tag identifiers) that indicate where a source begins and why that is a credible source.<\/li>\r\n \t
              • Quote any used words, as unquoted quotes can be plagiarism even if cited<\/em>.<\/li>\r\n \t
              • Avoid doing rushed or late work.<\/li>\r\n \t
              • Google searches or the first pages of hits should not be your first resort when researching.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nCourse Schedule and Organization . . .\u00a0 and a Little Warning<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThe Course Information area in Blackboard contains your schedule.\u00a0 It is organized by unit with weekly tasks set out, as well as the day of the week and date.\u00a0 There is much to cover in the first unit as you are getting used to the course.\u00a0 Do not be overwhelmed.\u00a0 Once you get used to posting, drafting, editing and resubmitting essays, it is fairly simple and later weeks have few instructions.\r\n\r\nOnline Success is Simple. . . Just not Easy<\/strong>\r\n
                  \r\n \t
                • Basically, we post in the active discussion forum, ask public questions in the Ask the Class forum, ask private questions via email, and attach homework assignments by attaching our Word file within the unit\u2019s Assignments folder.\u00a0 Other than attaching work or clicking \u201cSubmit\u201d to post, there are not many technical aspects to the online format.<\/li>\r\n \t
                • You own the course.\u00a0 Therefore, you participate actively.\u00a0 Each<\/strong> gap of over three full days results in you losing one-third of that board\u2019s participation points.\u00a0 You should not be taking the course if you plan on posting only \u201cevery once in a while,\u201d as it is more involved.\u00a0 The trade-off is that you determine the directions discussions take.\u00a0 Taking one\u2019s learning seriously means being present, active.<\/li>\r\n \t
                • Each unit, a complete rough draft of your essay is required on time for the essay\u2014and the discussion score\u2014to earn passing credit.\u00a0 I value both the product and the process.\u00a0 Do poorly on the process and the product will suffer.<\/li>\r\n \t
                • You peer edit at least two essays in the discussion board each unit, offering specific suggestions that improve at least two other students\u2019 papers.<\/li>\r\n \t
                • We read common texts and back up our points about them with details and reason.\u00a0 We\u2019re less interested in the particular opinion you have than in how you support and exemplify it.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nOnce you grasp how one unit flows\u2014with a flurry of early postings followed by reading, homework, more posts, drafting, more posts, peer editing, more posts, and the submission of a final copy\u2014we do this repeatedly.\u00a0 The good part of this is that, if you can master the system, you will earn high scores.\u00a0 Conversely, to the extent that you fail to participate or to do work on time, you\u2019ll earn disastrously low scores.\r\n\r\nThat\u2019s it!\r\n\r\nProper Expectations Matter<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThis is a course in critical reading, critical thinking, rhetoric and research.\u00a0 Having taught online every semester since 2002, I can share the top few student misconceptions about academic writing.\u00a0 Most relate to expectations.\r\n
                    \r\n \t
                  • The course is not self-paced.\u00a0 You cannot hope to succeed in this course without actively logging in and discussing the material.\u00a0 It\u2019s not a weekends-only course.\u00a0 In fact, there are huge participation penalties for not posting frequently.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
                      \r\n \t
                    • Disappearing for a few weeks without notice has immediate consequences.\u00a0 Since I accept no late work without prior permission, it\u2019s important not to make one\u2019s posts endangered species!<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • Reading turns into writing in valuable ways.\u00a0 That\u2019s what this course is about, but it may not be an attitude you walk in with.\u00a0 Students must learn to annotate their texts, taking the reading process seriously and turning what they marked up into occasions for writing.\u00a0 In other words, mark up your book in some fashion. The page is not sacred.\u00a0 Annotation isn\u2019t something you can\u2019t learn now just because you never did it or don\u2019t see its immediate value.<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • In high school, many of you did well by merely summarizing readings or reacting strongly and vaguely.\u00a0 Believing something strongly does not open a space for respect in academic writing; on the contrary, it is likely a spot where readers will find faults in logic!\u00a0 Editorializing (skipping from point to point with no examples) or using undefined, abstract ideas (think graduation speech or sermon) will not suffice at this level.\u00a0 Neither can you put in likely-looking quotes with no setup or commentary and expect that to be impressive to academic readers.\u00a0 Everything shows.<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • Although it\u2019s a forum, our discussion isn\u2019t a chat room.\u00a0 You\u2019ll use detail and post new ideas, questions, and specific replies to others.\u00a0 (\u201cFacebook, it ain\u2019t,\u201d though!)\u00a0 We are skeptics and we have read what you are writing about, so back up any airy opinions.<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • Your text\u2019s first few chapters will help you with reading and writing critically.\u00a0 For instance, much of it is given to how we create a short sentence title for each post.\u00a0 Yes, even this matters!\u00a0 As a famous textbook\u2019s title contends, \u201cEverything\u2019s an Argument.\u201d<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • I view clich\u00e9s as stand-ins for authentic expression, so avoid these.<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • Not posting is a sure way to fail.\u00a0 The only way I know you\u2019re reading is if you write about the reading.\u00a0 Everything will show, so if you master participation you\u2019ll likely have an easy time on the essays (drafts of which are posted and edited in the discussion boards).\u00a0 Posting, drafting, editing . . .\u00a0 this is all about improvement and attention to detail.<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • I\u2019m not a big believer in talent, that notion that one either is or is not good at writing, art, or math.\u00a0 Effort matters.\u00a0 As one textbook noted, \u201cWriting offers equal-opportunity hassle for all.\u201d\u00a0 I adhere to the idea that this is the single most important college class you will take.\u00a0 Where else will you train in research, reading, rhetoric, and critical thinking?<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • Unless you adopt the attitude that you\u2019ll do more than the minimum\u2014and on time\u2014you will struggle.\u00a0 I designed participation so you would have to do more than <\/strong>eight posts to earn strong scores.\u00a0 (Again\u2014not self-paced\u2014so you can\u2019t dash these off in Week One and take a vacation.)<\/li>\r\n \t
                    • Again, many students believe writing involves putting the right-looking quotes into the right-seeming spots and moving on as if something occurred.\u00a0 This may work at the high school level\u2014in fact, it may be encouraged by today\u2019s high-stakes testing environment\u2014but in college, you will be shown up quickly if you only generalize or do nothing after overused quotes.\u00a0 Your readers are critical and know the readings.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nAdditional Considerations<\/strong>\r\n\r\nA grade of \u201cY\u201d (abandoned the course) will be assessed if you miss two or more weeks of activity.\r\n\r\nFaculty Information<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
                      \r\n
                      \r\n\r\nJoshua Dickinson\r\n\r\n<\/div><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
                      E-mail: jdickinson@sunyjefferson.edu\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Office: 6-204B\r\n\r\nThe Private Messages feature in Bb is turned off, so we use your CannonMail account for general and private messaging.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
                      Phone: (315) 786-2221\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I have voice-mail.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\nOffice Hours: <\/strong>\r\n\r\nNone for summer courses.\r\n\r\nVirtual Office Hours<\/strong>: Call 315 767-6609 or email to jdickinson@sunyjefferson.edu","rendered":"

                      This syllabus is from ENG 243: Science Fiction and Fantasy.\u00a0 The OER does not include material on fantasy other than in Part 3 on Romanticism.<\/p>\n

                      Jefferson Community College<\/p>\n

                      Watertown, NY 13601<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      English 243: Science Fiction and Fantasy<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      Contact Hours:\u00a0 3<\/p>\n

                      Credit Hours:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 3<\/p>\n

                      Type of Hours:\u00a0 Lecture\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Prerequisite: English 102<\/p>\n

                      Course Description<\/strong><\/p>\n

                       <\/p>\n

                      English 243 is a literature elective which provides a survey of major readings in science fiction and fantasy literature. Reading selections will reflect the major literary movements within these speculative fiction genres. Students will become familiar with significant economic, political, and social influences on texts and will engage in oral and written literary analysis, interpreting a variety of representative texts.<\/p>\n

                      Instructional Goals<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      English 243 students will<\/p>\n

                        \n
                      1. Read actively, synthesize effectively, and respond critically to assigned science fiction and fantasy literature;<\/li>\n
                      2. Demonstrate how to apply basic literary terminology and methodology to interpret literature using textual references and relevant commentary;<\/li>\n
                      3. Discuss and write about prominent science fiction and fantasy authors, texts, and varying time periods;<\/li>\n
                      4. Explore the literature\u2019s distinctive social, cultural, and historical\/political influences;<\/li>\n
                      5. Complete diverse writing assignments, other than formal essays, designed to develop their analytical and interpretive skills;<\/li>\n
                      6. Write formal, literature-based essays that support arguable theses in clear, interesting, and appropriately developed styles for an academic audience;<\/li>\n
                      7. Employ Standard American English and correct grammatical structure, integrate citations from literary texts into their writing, and document these texts according to MLA style;<\/li>\n
                      8. Demonstrate increasing autonomy in achieving each of these goals.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                        Course Methods<\/strong><\/p>\n

                        These may include, but are not limited to, the following:<\/p>\n

                          \n
                        • Lectures<\/li>\n
                        • Presentations<\/li>\n
                        • Class discussions<\/li>\n
                        • Audio-visual resources<\/li>\n
                        • Group investigation and discussion<\/li>\n
                        • Live productions<\/li>\n
                        • Guest speakers<\/li>\n
                        • Oral interpretation of texts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                          Evaluation<\/strong><\/p>\n

                          The English Faculty\u2019s policy is to require formal and informal literary analysis as the primary means of evaluation. The techniques for measuring student performance must be consistent with course goals and instructional methods. Individual instructors are expected to specify the number and types of assignments on their course outlines. One example is as follows:<\/p>\n

                          Analysis Essays \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1650 points (33%)<\/p>\n

                          Participation\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1450 points (29%)<\/p>\n

                          Tests\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1400 points (28%)<\/p>\n

                          Homework and Quizzes\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 500 points (10%)<\/p>\n

                          Important<\/strong>: You are evaluated on both process and product in this course.\u00a0 To earn passing credit on any essay, students must attach a complete rough draft\u2014defined as a paper using cited sources and of the required minimum length and source use\u2014to the discussion board by the due date listed in the schedule.\u00a0 Any final copy must reflect significant improvement from the rough draft.<\/p>\n

                          Homework and essays must be submitted as Word or RTF files in Times or Arial font.\u00a0 No other fonts are accepted.\u00a0 Pasted-in work or work in other file formats will not be considered, so save as a Word file in whichever program you use by selecting Word<\/em> under file type<\/em>.<\/p>\n

                          Grading Criteria<\/strong><\/p>\n

                          The English faculty approves the use of a grading grid for formal essays.\u00a0 A copy of this grid is posted in Course Information.<\/p>\n

                          Course Topical Outline<\/strong><\/p>\n

                          The course must include, but is not limited to, the following topics:<\/p>\n

                            \n
                          • Definition and classification of science fiction (e.g., space opera, AI, alternative history, alternative future, cyberpunk, feminist, dystopian, utopian)<\/li>\n
                          • Definition and classification of fantasy literature (e.g., high fantasy, young adult, contemporary, dark fantasy, mythic, paranormal)<\/li>\n
                          • Historical overview of science fiction and fantasy genres<\/li>\n
                          • Methods of literary analysis<\/li>\n
                          • Literary terminology<\/li>\n
                          • Coverage of literary critical theory<\/li>\n
                          • \u00a0Major themes in science fiction and fantasy<\/li>\n
                          • Modern & postmodern economic, political, and social influences on science fiction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            Participation Expectations<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Classes in this format are not self-paced.\u00a0 Neither are they taken in isolation.\u00a0 Here is how the participation works.<\/p>\n

                              \n
                            • You would write at least eight substantive postings to earn the basic (70% grade) grade for each board.\u00a0 Write more than eight posts to earn more than the average grade.\u00a0 To earn an A grade in a discussion, write more than eight posts.\u00a0 Participation is predicated on your doing more than the minimum.<\/li>\n
                            • A timely presence matters. When any discussion board opens, you must post within forty-eight hours to avoid a penalty.\u00a0 Your activity level and consistency figure greatly in the grades you earn.<\/li>\n
                            • Large gaps in posting activity are unacceptable.\u00a0 For each<\/strong> gap in activity of three full days or more between postings, you will lose one-third of the points for that discussion.\u00a0 Notice the each<\/em> there.\u00a0 Miss that many days three times and you\u2019d have no points\u2014even if you posted fifteen other times.\u00a0 Consistency matters.<\/li>\n
                            • Responses to others, rough drafts, and peer edits\u2014if properly developed\u2014may count as quality discussion postings.<\/li>\n
                            • Failing to peer edit others\u2019 (two edits) work results in a failing discussion score.<\/li>\n
                            • Only<\/strong> posts with short sentences as subjects (see below) will count.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                              Each post has two fields that you must complete correctly in order to get credit: Message and Subject.\u00a0 No matter how well written your message, if your subject isn\u2019t clear or acceptable, your post does not meet the criteria for acceptability.\u00a0 You will lose credit if you do not follow the two key rules below.<\/p>\n

                              Rule #1: The message content of your posting must introduce relevant information which teaches us something new.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                              Your job here is to provide new information which is appropriate to the issue being discussed.<\/p>\n

                                \n
                              1. Is your message accurate?<\/li>\n
                              2. Is it relevant to the issue under discussion?\u00a0 How so?<\/li>\n
                              3. Did you teach us anything new?<\/li>\n
                              4. Have you added to the academic atmosphere of the course?<\/li>\n
                              5. Is your information properly cited using MLA format?\u00a0 (This includes any summaries, paraphrases, or quotes\u2014even of other students\u2019 postings.)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                Note: <\/strong>Saying \u201cYes, I totally agree\u201d is a non-informative message that, while it might be good for the class social environment, adds nothing to the teaching presence<\/strong> (knowledge) of the course.<\/p>\n

                                Rule #2: The subject line for your posting must be a short complete sentence which conveys the point of your message.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                Create a sentence-form subject line for your discussion postings that conveys the main point.\u00a0 It is not enough to use a keyword as your subject; use a short sentence (a complete sentence, but not more than about 10 words) summarizing the message\u2019s main point. Write the subject after creating the message.\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n

                                This requirement accomplishes two goals:<\/p>\n

                                  \n
                                1. It requires the writer to think about and clearly state the main point of the message.\u00a0 The author must have a clear understanding of the material; this aids in learning and memory.<\/li>\n
                                2. It provides the reader with advance information which is helpful in organizing and learning the message content.\u00a0 Readers should be able to determine the essence of your comment just by reading your subject<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                  Late Paper\/Late Work Policy<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  No late work will be accepted without prior permission<\/strong>.\u00a0 Essays are due by the end of the day (11:59 Eastern Standard Time) on the due dates listed in the schedule.\u00a0 <\/strong>Give me reasonable time to respond to your request that I accept the work late.\u00a0 Late papers accepted under those circumstances would lose 10% for every day they are late.\u00a0 Notify me promptly by email if you use a boon: jdickinson@sunyjefferson.edu<\/p>\n

                                  Printer\/computer problems or lack of access to the text are not acceptable excuses for failing to turn in work.<\/p>\n

                                  Excessive absences (of a week more) without communication with the professor are not allowed.\u00a0 In nearly all situations, you are able to contact me promptly.\u00a0 If a situation arises, let me know as soon as possible.\u00a0 I will not entertain requests that you be allowed to complete a course after a month\u2019s absence, for example.<\/p>\n

                                  Important<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  When a draft is due and you don\u2019t submit it on time, the discussion board and final copy grades are failing.\u00a0 Grading for the late essay\u2019s final copy begins at 59%.\u00a0 Students may not opt out of major assignments; no further work will be accepted till the essay is submitted and evaluated.<\/p>\n

                                  I reserve the right to treat late work on a case-by-case basis.\u00a0 Absences are covered in the College Catalog<\/em>; what you may think is an acceptable absence probably isn\u2019t . . . Read that policy carefully.<\/p>\n

                                  Acceptable Academic Sources<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  All assignments have acceptable source guidelines on the assignment sheets.\u00a0 Internet searches often lead to nonacademic information resources, such as Wikipedia.org, Encarta, eHow.com, Shmoop.com, Ask.com, Encarta.msn.com, Infoplease.com, etc. These sources may not be used, as they are not academic.<\/p>\n

                                  Civility<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  Jefferson Community College believes that all persons should be extended civility and respect, regardless of factors such as opinion\/view, institutional role, race, religion, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation or age. Teaching and learning are the focus of Jefferson Community College. Accordingly, the College is committed to creating and maintaining positive learning and working environments both in and out of the academic classroom.<\/p>\n

                                  While it is understood that disagreement will and should occur in a collegiate setting, open communication, intellectual integrity, mutual respect for differing viewpoints, freedom from unnecessary disruption\/disorder, and a climate of civility are important institutional values.<\/p>\n

                                  Academic Honesty<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  You will not present any ideas, patterns of reasoning, or others’ words as your own work.\u00a0 Anything that is quoted, summarized or paraphrased must be documented properly in MLA style.\u00a0 For instance, if a student failed to quote direct use of a source’s words, they would create a plagiarism situation even if the work was cited<\/em>, since the lack of quotes indicates that your words were used.\u00a0 Plagiarism will result in a failing grade for the assignment or for the course.<\/p>\n

                                  We assume that all ideas and facts in your reports are your own unless you cite a source (oral or written, professional or student), using MLA documentation style.\u00a0 Any words not in quotes are yours; if you fail to quote others\u2019 words\u2014even if you cite\u2014this creates a plagiarism situation.\u00a0 These are easily spotted and dealt with.\u00a0 You had best police yourself before I have to.\u00a0 Ignorance of the rules is not an excuse, and neither is the idea that you were just \u201cgetting inspiration\u201d from a source.\u00a0 (While the course is gamified, this plagiarism tracking is not the sort of game I enjoy.\u00a0 It is easy for me and a student\u2019s bad choices will be spotted, but I don\u2019t enjoy this nonsense.)<\/p>\n

                                  Students engaging in plagiarism are subject to at least a \u201czero\u201d grade for that assignment.\u00a0 With severe cases of plagiarism, students may be withdrawn from the course with an \u201cF.\u201d\u00a0 This policy is your warning to avoid plagiarism. If serious plagiarism occurs, a letter indicating the plagiarism is placed in your student file.<\/p>\n

                                  I reserve the right to deal with plagiarism on a case-by-case basis.\u00a0 I may revisit and regrade earlier assignments found plagiarized if a later assignment contains plagiarism.<\/p>\n

                                  Each of your essays must reflect new writing for this class only<\/strong>. Such work earns no points.\u00a0 Essays previously written for high school or for another course will not be accepted.\u00a0 You may not double up an essay for this and another class, as this is a form of self-plagiarism.\u00a0 Students may not reuse source data from previous papers.<\/p>\n

                                  The College Catalog<\/em> covers the College\u2019s academic honesty policy: \u201cIt is expected that all work you submit is entirely<\/strong> your own unless you have given another source credit using MLA guidelines.\u00a0 All forms of plagiarism require disciplinary action, which may range from earning no credit for an assignment to failing the course to expulsion from the College.\u201d\u00a0 Consult the College Catalog<\/em> for additional details.<\/p>\n

                                  Avoiding Plagiarism<\/strong><\/p>\n