Class Letter

Dear Int Comm-ers,

Eight weeks is a funny amount of time.  At times, the summer seemed to drag on, especially around hour 3.5 of 4.  But looking back, eight weeks is so short.  I hate the saying, but time flew this term! 

You all were up to the challenge though, and I think it really paid off in the end.  The daily homework, the multiple drafts of our essays, and the in-class and out of class work with Nancy helped you reach the potential I could see in each of you our first day.  I'm so pleased with how much more conscious you are of how to compose sentences now.  The attention I see you put towards choosing the best word for your thought, the right form of a verb so it matches your subject...these are things that many of you didn't even consider in the beginning.  Even though it is painful to write this way (because of how much more attention you have to give each thought), you are all taking that first all important step to becoming college writers and lifelong thinkers! 

As much work as we put into writing this summer, I can see the dividends paying off in reading too.  When you become more aware of writing styles, you become more critical readers.  Always annotate and ask yourself "why?" when reading.  Again, I know it slows the process and is somewhat painful to do, but know that good things come with patience and perserverance. 

You all did so well this summer.  I hope you take a few weeks to enjoy your success and build off of it.  Keep reading!  Write daily!  Think about anything that interests you!  Make it a habit to read or write (or both) on the CTA.  You'll be amazed at how much you can get done during your commute :).  In the fall, you'll be primed for Int Comm 100, and you'll go in knowing that you are reading for the beginning review that most 100 classes start off with. 

Normally, this is the time when I'd invite you all to stop in my office or email me the following semester to let me know how you are doing.  However, this summer, you know I am moving to Maryland, and I will probably also lose my CCC email address.  Know that I wish you all the BEST OF LUCK! 

Best,
Lynn

THursday's class schedule

On Thursday, I will be in my office from 8:00 (ish)-1:00 (at least!...I may be there later if appeals warrant, but do not rely on me staying later).  You will need to stop by my office (room 632) at some point to pick up your final paper, any old work, AND the form you will need to register.  At that time, I will also give you your actual final grade. 

It may not seem all that important to you to come to class on Thursday, but if you want your paper back, you must come.  If, however, all you are concerned with is the form for registration, I can leave that in my mailbox and you may pick it up at anytime before you wish to register. 

Turning in the final essay

INTRODUCTION:  Underline the hook, draw a line beside the background information and highlight the thesis (you may have to borrow a friend's highlighter)

BODY #1: Circle the subject from each sentence, then make sure that the verb agrees with it

BODY #2: Underline the topic sentence, then make sure that everything else in the paragraph serves to explain and develop that sentence

CONCLUSION: Review the verb tense in this paragraph, then make sure that all major points are included in BLOCK order

To prep for the Exit Essay

Monday, July 26 is the exit essay.  We will take a few minutes to review Monday morning, but by that time, you should be ready to roll and write the best essay of the summer.

This weekend:  Consider reviewing old essays and typing the current essay up to examine strenghts and weaknesses.  Then you'll know what to focus on for Monday. 

Now: Read the sample exit topics and draft practice responses.  Make sure that they follow the assigned topic. 

What is one of your hobbies?  Explain two of the most important apects of your favorite hobby. 

• Thesis: My favorite hobby is running on the lakefront path.
• paragraph #1: It is important to have good running shoes
• paragraph #2: It is important to know your limitations so you don't run too far or get injured. 

Now it is your turn...below are several sample exit questions.  Prewrite and then come up with the thesis and at least two body paragraphs.  You can even write out the whole essay from there!  If you have questions, feel free to email me the exit question, thesis and body topics.  I'll be as quick as possible in response (Fair warning:  I'll be in Ohio this weekend, and the Internet access is awful dial-up at my sister's, but I really will try to be as speedy as possible). 

1. Many people think that summer classes are too difficult.  Provide two reasons that explain why you chose to take a summer English class. 
2. Cubs and Sox rivalries are serious business.  Compare and contrast the Cubs to the Sox in order to come to a conclusion about which team is better.
3. Vegitariansism is a way of life for many.  What do you think about this lifestyle choice?  Provide two reasons to explain your opinion. 
4. WHat is one of your major educational goals?  Explain how you will reach it. 

**You've all worked for the past 7 weeks to write this exit essay.  Relax, breath and trust the work you've put in already.  On Monday, remember to think about what the question is asking of you, plan your response, and then start writing.  You'll have 110 minutes to complete the essay, so you'll have more than enough time to revise and edit**

Andy and the Xoi

Hmmm. Isn't this just what we worked on?

Worrisome words spell check won't catch

Classficiation Sample

     Every friend has different classfications.  There are good friends, nice friends, phony friends, and mean friends.  A good friends in someone who you can tell everything, and she won't judge you.  A nice friend is a friend who would give you her last.  Phony friends are the ones your mother warned you about, the ones who smile in your face and talk about you behind your back.  Mean friends are the ones who always have something to say about what you do and are very judgmental. 

1.  What is the basis for classficiation?  What are the types (or classes) of friends?
2.  What is the topic sentence of the paragraph? 
3.  What is the point or conclusion the writer wants the reader to come to?