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Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

English - Creative Writing (ENGCW) Courses

ENGCW 400 Creative Writing

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 200
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course emphasizes writing of poetry, short fiction, and autobiography. It includes analysis of student work by the instructor and class in a workshop atmosphere. Students explore their creativity through the medium of language and learn the techniques of poetry, fiction, and autobiography while also developing an appreciation of literature by creating it. Students will generate their own original works of fiction, autobiography/non-fiction, and poetry to include in a final portfolio of their work. Students will also learn and apply historical and aesthetic criticism throughout the creative process by reading and evaluating literary work through the ages from various cultures. This analytical work will help students understand the literary arts as part of human history.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and compare works of professional poetry, short fiction, and literary creative non-fiction using a historical framework.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the use of structural elements of writing poetry, short fiction, and creative non-fiction by applying these to their own work.
  • practice methods of revision and apply them to their own work; and evaluate student creative non-fiction in the workshop setting.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, and politics and conceive how these areas may be present or not present in one's own writing.
  • create a portfolio of their own original work.

ENGCW 410 Fiction Writing Workshop

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is designed for students who wish to develop an appreciation for the literary art of fiction. The course will include workshops of student-generated short stories and novel chapters. Through lecture, discussion, assigned reading, and writing exercises, students will examine critically the elements of literary creation and develop criteria of aesthetic judgment. Students will keep journals and prepare portfolios of their original fiction.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and compare works of professional literary fiction using a historical framework.
  • create works of fiction that demonstrate an understanding of the structural elements of writing fiction and the process of revision.
  • evaluate student-generated works of fiction in a workshop setting.
  • produce a portfolio of short stories and/or novel chapters.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, and politics and conceive how these areas may be present or not present in one's own writing.

ENGCW 420 Poetry Writing Workshop

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is designed for students who wish to develop an appreciation for the literary art of poetry. The course will include workshops of student-generated poems. Through lecture, discussion, assigned reading, and writing exercises, students will examine critically the elements of literary creation and develop criteria of aesthetic judgment.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and compare works of professional literary poetry using a historical framework.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the use of structural elements of writing poetry by applying these to their own work.
  • produce a portfolio of poems.
  • practice methods of revision and apply them to their own work; and evaluate student poetry in the workshop setting.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, and politics and conceive how these areas may be present or not present in one's own writing.

ENGCW 430 Creative Non-Fiction Writing Workshop

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is a creative writing course in creative non-fiction. The class focuses on constructive analysis of personal essays written by students, as well as critical analysis of literary works of creative non-fiction, including autobiography. Through lecture, discussion, collaborative writing, the study of texts that outline the criteria and traditions of creative non-fiction writing, interviews, and writing exercises, students will critically examine the elements of personal, ecological, multi-cultural, multi-generational, multi-disciplinary and mythological writing. Students will interview family members and other people of personal significance, keep a journal and prepare a portfolio of completed work.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and compare works of professional literary creative non-fiction using a historical framework.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the use of structural elements of writing creative non-fiction by applying these to their own work.
  • produce a portfolio of essays.
  • practice methods of revision and apply them to their own work; and evaluate student creative non-fiction in the workshop setting.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, and politics and conceive how these areas may be present or not present in one's own writing.

ENGCW 433 Writing as a Healing Art

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course emphasizes journal writing as a model for creative writing projects and as a vehicle for healing using the Amherst Writers and Artists method of journal writing as well as other methods of employing writing and art as a healing mechanism. Students will write extensively in journals throughout the semester and then turn some of those writings into finished pieces of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Students will prepare a portfolio of original work.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • use the Amherst Writers and Artists method and/or various other methods of therapeutic journal writing and critiquing and demonstrate an understanding of the psychological theory behind therapeutic writing.
  • create first drafts of poems, short stories, and autobiographical essays from journal entries.
  • apply editing techniques about creative writing style to refine drafts of poems, short stories, or autobiographical essays.
  • analyze their own and peers' writing to see if it meets criteria established in class (fresh language, original metaphors and similes, a well-developed character, etc.) for what makes a good poem, short story, and autobiographical essay.
  • demonstrate critical listening skills while evaluating peers' writing.
  • produce a portfolio of their journal writings and pieces of creative writing.
  • demonstrate the ability to write to facilitate psychological process.
  • recognize the psychological value of therapeutic writing and incorporate it into their life.

ENGCW 450 College Literary Magazine

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGCW 400, 410, or 420 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course provides instruction in techniques and experience in editing and structuring the college literary magazine, Susurrus. Students will select and edit manuscripts in the genres of poetry, short fiction, and creative non-fiction. A field trip is required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and apply writing process in a literary magazine.
  • compose publicity to solicit writing and visual art from the college community.
  • generate criteria for literary excellence and evaluate creative writing based on those criteria.
  • analyze and appraise the history and tradition of literary publication.
  • apply critical thinking skills: identifying and defining issues related to editing and production; analyze and evaluate literary pieces.

ENGCW 451 College Literary Magazine: Production

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGCW 450 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

The course provides experience in producing the college literary magazine, Susurrus, from selecting and editing manuscripts to formatting and readying the entire text for publication. Discussions span from text and art layout to website applications and management. Students will plan and present a college literary reading.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe the production process from creation of manuscript to design and publication of a magazine.
  • identify and define issues related to editing and production; collaborate to analyze and evaluate literary pieces and other information related to production; synthesize and develop conclusions.
  • create, design, and produce (through collaboration with entire staff) a large, multi-faceted public literary reading.

ENGCW 495 Independent Studies in English - Creative Writing

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

Independent study allows a student or small group of students to work directly with an instructor independent of a structured class or course. The instructor and student(s) typically develop a contract together, outlining the course of study. Variable units enable maximum flexibility in creating this course of study. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • produce a portfolio of creative work.
  • create drafts and revisions.
  • express appreciation for the craft of creative writing.

ENGCW 499 Experimental Offering in English - Creative Writing

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


English - Education (ENGED) Courses

ENGED 305 Structure of English

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is a study of the structure of English grammar systems, especially as they relate to writing. It includes the study and practice of traditional and transformational grammar in standardized usage, with emphasis on the relationship of grammar to writing (2,000 word writing requirement); it also includes the study of the history of the English language and implications of such within the culturally diverse population of California schools. It is designed for those who plan to teach or who are especially interested in grammar as it relates to writing with emphasis on the Common Core.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • examine the history and structure of English.
  • analyze the relationships between language and power, including acquisition of English among culturally diverse populations.
  • apply knowledge of standard usage and differentiate between academic English and other forms of English usage in writing.
  • employ critical thinking skills in making appropriate rhetorical choices based on grammatical considerations.

ENGED 320 Service Learning: Tutoring Elementary Students in Reading

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Students must show proof of a negative TB test and have background check and fingerprinting completed prior to beginning work in the schools.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course offers students an opportunity to learn and practice basic methods of tutoring elementary children in reading. Tutor training will take place for the first part of the semester after which students will be assigned to elementary students and have in-depth practice tutoring with supervision. This course can meet the field experience requirement for teacher preparation programs.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • evaluate reading skills by analyzing a variety of assessments.
  • design and implement lesson plans incorporating appropriate activities for improving reading skills.
  • apply principles of motivation, cultural awareness, behavior modification, and memory enhancement for effective instruction.
  • design and implement effective remediation strategies.
  • demonstrate appropriate interpersonal communication skills when interacting with students from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic groups.

ENGED 326 Teaching Reading Strategies Across the Curriculum

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course addresses reading and critical thinking strategies to prepare students to become fluent, independent readers in K-12 and college-level courses across the disciplines. Application of the California Common Core Standards is also included. This course is recommended for future educators, K-12 teachers, and community college instructors.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe and apply the process of reading across disciplines.
  • apply teaching tools for assessing student needs and strengths.
  • describe and teach strategies for critical reading and elements of comprehension.
  • demonstrate effective teaching strategies for vocabulary development.
  • analyze and apply effective digital literacy practices.
  • teach students to implement strategic study strategies and test taking techniques.

ENGED 495 Independent Studies in English - Education

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

Independent study allows a student or small group of students to work directly with an instructor independent of a structured class or course. The instructor and student(s) typically develop a contract together, outlining the course of study. Variable units enable maximum flexibility in creating this course of study. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate increased knowledge of educational strategies in the English classroom.

ENGED 499 Experimental Offering in English - Education

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


English - Laboratory (ENGLB) Courses

ENGLB 55 Individualized Reading and Writing Skills

  • Units:0.5 - 2
  • Hours:27 - 108 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

The Reading and Writing Lab is a 0.5-unit lab class with weekly assignments designed to support students in reading, writing, and other college courses. The course engages students in assignments and activities that directly address the reading and writing demands of ENGRD, ENGWR, and other college courses. Students are awarded units based on successful completion of assigned work and conferences with their lab instructor. This course may be taken for a maximum of 2 units over multiple semesters, with each course constructed to assist students in their needs for that semester. Students may register until the end of the ninth week of the semester and as space allows. The course is graded on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate college-ready reading and writing skills.
  • employ vocabulary development techniques.
  • demonstrate literal and inferential comprehension.
  • identify, evaluate, and address the elements and concepts in various reading and writing tasks.
  • demonstrate and apply knowledge of the active reading and writing process to college-level texts and assignments including culturally-relevant materials.

ENGLB 299 Experimental Offering in English - Laboratory

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


English - Literature (ENGLT) Courses

ENGLT 301 Introduction to Literature in Hip-Hop Culture

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; and LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys the literature that exists within Hip-Hop culture. Students will learn to apply critical literary analysis while exploring literature across multiple genres within Hip-Hop culture, including poetry, drama, short fiction, creative non-fiction, essays, and film. The course will explore how the historical, cultural, racial, social and political context of Hip-Hop literary works shape the creative process and products. Students will also explore the evolution of Hip-Hop as a complex culture with various creative outputs, not just a musical genre.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify key elements of major genres in order demonstrate knowledge of various forms of Hip-Hop literature.
  • define and apply common literary terms in order to analyze and evaluate Hip-Hop literary works.
  • assess and examine Hip-Hop literature analyzing the role of regional, social, racial, and historical context.
  • research appropriate primary and secondary sources and apply documentation skills without plagiarism in order to synthesize ideas and themes from original Hip-Hop works and secondary sources.

ENGLT 303 Introduction to the Short Story

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is designed to introduce students to the art of the short story. It will provide a history of the short story and distinguishing characteristics of the genre. The emphasis will be on the connection between literature and the human experience. The purpose will be to help students develop an appreciation, understanding, and knowledge of short fiction.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze structural elements of short fiction written or translated into English (such as character, plot, point of view, symbolism, etc.) in discussions and writing.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how works of short fiction manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 304 Introduction to Poetry

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course introduces the art of poetry. It includes the analysis and appreciation of poetry as a type of literature with careful attention to the elements of poetics, the various styles of poetry, and major poets and poetic movements. Poetic theories and poems by a wide variety of traditional and contemporary poets as well as poetic theory are examined. This course requires critical reading and written analysis of poetry.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze conventions of poetic discourse in discussion and writing about poems.
  • evaluate and compare individual poems, periods, and authors.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • analyze and evaluate how poems manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 310 English Literature I

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 160
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys significant works in the English language from Beowulf through the Eighteenth Century. This course requires critical reading and written analysis of poetry, fiction, essays, and plays. Students will also examine the historical and cultural environments in which the literature was created. Other works and writers may include Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Geoffrey Chaucer, Edmund Spenser, William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, John Milton, John Donne, Renaissance lyric poets, Aphra Behn, and Jonathan Swift.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the significant writers, works, and ideas contributing to the development of English literature from the Middle Ages to the Eighteenth Century.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why texts reinforce, perpetuate, and subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 311 English Literature II

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 165
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys significant works in the English language from Romanticism in the 18th Century to post colonialism in the 20th Century. This course requires critical reading and written analysis of a diverse selection of literary genres by a variety of authors, such as Wordsworth, Blake, the Brontes, Wilde, Yeats, Joyce, Woolf, Rushdie, Walcott, and Adichie.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the significant writers, works, and ideas contributing to the development of English literature from Romanticism to the present.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why texts reinforce, perpetuate, and subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 317 The English Bible as Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course introduces students to some of the literary forms found in the Bible: the poems, proverbs, short stories, wisdom literature, drama, epics, and epistles that are the bases of some of the most enduring symbols and allusions in the literature of the Western world. At the same time, it introduces them to the major Bible characters on whose lives these poems, short stories, wisdom literature, drama, epistles, and epics are centered. The course traces the influence of the Bible on the works of selected authors. It is not a study of Jewish or Christian doctrine, nor is it a Bible study course.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze Biblical prose and poetry.
  • identify and define Biblical literary genres.
  • identify Biblical allusions, metaphors, and themes in classical and contemporary Western literary, artistic, and musical works.
  • recognize and identify Biblical characters, settings, and themes.
  • analyze, situate, and write about the Biblical text and/or secondary Biblical texts such as commentaries within historical, socio-cultural and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of various literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why the Bible treats gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 320 American Literature I

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 130
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys representative works in American literature from approximately 1492-1865. Readings and discussion will highlight the multicultural, diverse and sometimes contradictory narratives and impulses of early American literature and society. This course examines colonial American literature as a tradition that not only reflects a rapidly changing world, but also as a tradition which actively shaped a colonial era defined by political revolution, expanding commerce, slavery, settler colonialism and the rise of print culture. This course requires critical reading and written analysis of a diverse selection of literary genres.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • situate, analyze and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics and/or physical ability.
  • define and highlight the development and evolution of the American literary canon while also connecting the formation of the American canon to contemporary social issues.

ENGLT 321 American Literature II

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 135
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys representative works in American literature from approximately 1865 to the present. Readings and discussion will highlight the multicultural nature of American literature and society, and the interaction between literary creations and their social, political, and economic context. Students will read from a diverse selection of literary genres and develop their critical thinking and communication skills through individual and collective engagement with the course content. This course requires critical reading and written analysis of a diverse selection of literary genres.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and discuss the contributions of diverse writers to the literary developments of the United States from the American Civil War to the present.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of relevant literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why texts written by American authors manifest and/or challenge concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 327 Literature of California

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course examines the literature of California in the context of its ethnic, social, political, and geographical history. The course will examine a wide range of literature (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, memoirs, and essays) including but not limited to Native American legends, early California exploration accounts, prose and poetry from the California heartland, childhood memoirs, and more, with emphasis on the racial, ethnic, socio-economic, and cultural diversity that make the California experience unique.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • appraise the richness and diversity of California through its literature.
  • demonstrate the ability to read analytically and critically to discover the ethnic and cultural diversity of California.
  • examine California-generated literature, comparing and contrasting the authors' multi-cultural values.
  • analyze and evaluate in written and oral form the literature of California.
  • recognize the connections between California literature of the past and present to issues/concerns faced by Californians today.

ENGLT 328 Literature and The Environment

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is an introduction to literature with an emphasis on American environmental literature. Study will include major figures, themes, and historical periods; different cultural perspectives on the relationship between humans and the natural nonhuman world; the role women have played in the development of the genre; social justice issues related to environmentalism; and the relationship between environmental literature and emerging environmental concerns.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • define environmental literature as a genre.
  • identify and read selected major figures in environmental literature and analyze their contribution to the genre.
  • compare and contrast the ways in which the human relationship to the nonhuman world has been imagined in literature from various cultures.
  • critique aspects of contemporary U.S. culture from an ecological perspective and examine environmental social justice issues in the context of race and ethnicity, religion, social class, economics, and power dynamics.
  • assess the contribution of literary texts to the emerging culture of environmental concern.

ENGLT 331 African-American Literature (1730-1930)

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025


ENGLT 331 explores the African-American literary tradition from 1730 to 1930. This course examines the African-American vernacular and oral tradition, including folktales, spirituals, sorrow songs, and work songs. Course readings will also explore abolitionist texts, autobiographies, essays, poems, plays, short stories, and full length novels written by iconic and influential African-American authors during colonial times through the Harlem Renaissance period. Class content will be situated in historical, socio-political context as well as connected to modern day concerns about Black authorship, Black liberation, and social justice in the United States.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the significant African-American authors and developments of the African-American literary tradition from 1730-1930.
  • formulate and develop critical interpretations and analyses of various literary and critical texts.
  • analyze and evaluate literary texts in the historical, cultural, social, and political contexts in which they were written.
  • analyze African American literature's cultural, sociohistorical, and political frameworks, including comparisons to the emerging European-American literary canon.
  • produce essays and other written responses that interpret, analyze, and evaluate the literature and successfully incorporate quoted and paraphrased material into their own writing.

ENGLT 332 African-American Literature (1930-Present)

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

ENGLT 332 explores the African-American literary tradition from 1930 to present times. This course examines the evolution of the African-American vernacular and oral tradition. Course readings will explore critical texts, autobiographies, essays, poems, plays, short stories, and full length novels written by iconic and influential African-American authors ranging from the modernist period to contemporary times. Class content will be situated in historical, socio-political context as well as connected to modern day concerns about Black authorship, Black liberation, and social justice in the United States.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify significant authors and developments of the African-American literary tradition from 1930-present.
  • formulate and develop critical interpretations and analyses of various literary and critical texts.
  • analyze and evaluate literary texts in the historical, cultural, social, and political contexts in which they were written.
  • analyze African American literature's cultural, sociohistorical, and political frameworks, including comparisons to the European-American literary canon.
  • produce essays and other written responses that interpret, analyze, and evaluate the literature and successfully incorporate quoted and paraphrased material into their own writing.

ENGLT 334 Asian-American Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; CSU Area D3; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys fiction, drama, poetry, and memoirs written by Asian Americans. The course focuses on works written by Americans of Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese descent but also includes the work of other Pan-Asian American writers. Students explore the ways in which the experience of being Asian in America has shaped the literature and examine the differences and similarities of these experiences across cultures, generations, and genders. Optional field trips may be included.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • situate, analyze, and write about Asian American literature within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • identify the significant writers, works, and ideas contributing to the development of Asian American literature.
  • present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why texts reinforce, perpetuate, and subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 335 Latino, Mexican-American, and Chicano Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys U.S. literature (prose, poetry, drama, creative non-fiction) authored by Latino, Mexican-American, and Chicano writers. Emphasizing the historical and cultural roots of this body of literature, the course examines the contested meanings of such concepts as: Latino, Mexican-American, and Chicano identity; the relationship between social/political activism and literary expression; immigration and the border; and gender relations and sexuality within the many Latino communities. Special attention will be paid to literary forms such as the corrido, the testimonio, and the Chicano theater movement. Knowledge of some Spanish is helpful, but not required. Field trips may be included.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate knowledge of various Latino, Chicano, and Mexican-American literature in the U.S.
  • relate Latino culture to literary production.
  • assess and examine Latino literature in social/historical context.
  • evaluate Latino cultural experiences in light of broader U.S. culture and the effects of racism.
  • synthesize ideas and themes from original texts and secondary sources.

ENGLT 345 Mythologies of the World

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course offers a thematic and regional approach to mythology and legend from a variety of cultures, with emphasis on the following types of stories: beginnings of the world, creation of living creatures, explanation of natural phenomena, relationships between gods and mortals, deeds of superhumans, the archetypal hero, and destruction, death, and afterlife.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compare the myths and legends of various cultures and time periods.
  • recognize the interrelated nature of human concern with the mythic and divine by evaluating archetypal elements in myths and legends from ancient times to the present.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts (eg: praxes).
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how texts reinforce, perpetuate, and/or subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 360 Women in Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course surveys literature by and/or about women. It emphasizes American and British writers and the multicultural nature of the women's canon. Readings may include literature from any nation, culture, or historical period and focus on a comparative analysis of gender issues. Possible authors include Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Virginia Woolf, Harriet Jacobs, Zora Neale Hurston, Sylvia Plath, Flannery O'Conner, Maxine Hong Kingston, Sandra Cisneros, Leslie Marmon Silko, Toni Morrison, Jhumpa Lahiri, Edwidge Danticat, and others.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • situate, analyze, and write about primary texts by women writers within historical, socio-cultural and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of primary text(s) by women writers.
  • evaluate how works by women writers manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.
  • apply feminist literary theory to texts.

ENGLT 365 Introduction to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This class will survey representative literature concerning lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA) themes and issues as written by or about LGBTQIA people from ancient times to the present day. The comprehensive literary study includes analysis of significant historical and cultural influences with emphasis on how sexual and gender identity combine with nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, and physical ability to shape LGBTQIA literary themes, characters, and movements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze, situate, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts reinforce, perpetuate, and/or subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.
  • evaluate and understand how sexual and gender identity combine with nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, and/or physical ability to shape LGBTQIA literary themes, characters, and/or movements.
  • evaluate and situate their own sexual and gender identity within the diverse contexts of LGBTQIA literary themes, characters, and/or movements.

ENGLT 370 Children and Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300, LIBR 318, and LIBR 325 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 180
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is a survey of high-quality literature, past and present, created for children. It includes instruction in pedagogical skills for selecting, evaluating, and discussing children's literature such as discussion of the history of children's literature and current issues such as censorship, literacy, multiculturalism, and diversity. This course is intended for prospective teachers, early childhood education (ECE) majors, librarians, parents, those interested in writing or publishing children's books, and those who enjoy children's literature. It may include reading to children in a formal group setting.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • examine the genres of children's literature.
  • analyze and apply theories and criteria for selecting and evaluating children's literature.
  • describe and interpret the contributions of cultural and ethnically diverse authors, illustrators, and critics of children's literature and those whose works have been recognized by the leading children's literature award programs.
  • interpret and apply the theories and practices of oral reading and storytelling.
  • develop ideas and practical activities for helping children to experience, appreciate, and respond to literature.
  • examine literature portraying diverse and multicultural perspectives.

ENGLT 380 Introduction to Shakespeare

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course will guide the student through interpretation of several of Shakespeare's most popular plays and sonnets by taking a close look at his language, themes, and values to illustrate Shakespeare's relevance in today's world. By bringing their own unique and diverse perspectives to the texts, students will appreciate the vitality and universality of Shakespeare's works.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts (eg: praxes).
  • present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how texts reinforce, perpetuate, and/or subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.
  • recognize and identify primary characters and recurring thematic elements in plays and sonnets of Shakespeare.
  • explicate passages from Shakespeare's plays and sonnets to uncover meaning and guide interpretation.
  • define the major dramatic modes (comedy, tragedy, etc.), relating them to Shakespeare's plays.

ENGLT 392 Science Fiction and Fantasy

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course introduces students to significant works in science fiction and fantasy literature. Students will explore connections between the literature and concerns about social, ethical, and scientific developments or trends. Authors may include Octavia Butler, William Gibson, Aldous Huxley, Ursula Le Guin, Neal Stephenson, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Kurt Vonnegut.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and discuss major themes and historical trends in the Science Fiction and Fantasy genres, including reflections on technology, ethics, and social constructions as these are represented in the literature.
  • construct clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) in this genre, with or without secondary research.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts in this genre manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.

ENGLT 400 Introduction to Film

  • Same As:TAFILM 300
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300, ESLR 340, and ESLW 340 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course explores the artistic, business, and social elements of modern film. It examines the elements that go into making films: acting, directing, cinematography, writing, and editing. It investigates the techniques used to manipulate the audience into fear, laughter, and sadness and compares the commercial box office hit and "movie star" to enduring artistic films and actors. This class will view and analyze films to evaluate filmmaking techniques and the impact of films and the movie business on society. This course is cross-listed with TAFILM 300. It may be taken only once for credit as TAFILM 300 or as ENGLT 400, but not both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze film as a mode of artistic expression and communication.
  • analyze cinema's place within a framework of modern culture.
  • demonstrate development of aesthetic and perceptual skills to appreciate works of film as explorations of human experience.
  • describe technical, artistic, and theoretical elements of cinema.
  • analyze and evaluate film in terms of aesthetic and critical factors: technical elements, style, form, context, etc.
  • construct criteria for critical approaches to films.
  • demonstrate a critical approach to film through written and oral film critiques and/or projects.

ENGLT 401 Women in Film and Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

From its earliest days, Hollywood has played an important role in shaping and reflecting cultural assumptions, myths, and fears. This course examines the underlying messages about race and gender in Hollywood's portrayal of women. The course also compares and contrasts representation of different groups of women, including minority and marginalized, in independent and experimental films. In addition to viewing a variety of film genres, the reading assignments include works of fiction, poetry, and essays from sociology, psychology, and critical theory.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • understand and critically analyze the diverse images of women created throughout the history of filmmaking and recognize ways those images have reflected and shaped gender identity and gender roles in society from the early years of cinema to today.
  • evaluate how and/or why films and texts reinforce, perpetuate, and/or subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics and/or physical ability.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s), viewing of film(s), and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • identify and evaluate the ways in which filmmakers “reinterpret” and modify literary works to fit Hollywood myths.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural and/or theoretical contexts.

ENGLT 403 Film Adaptations

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3A; IGETC Area 3B
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course examines the process, pitfalls, and successes of adapting literary, stage, and previous film material into films. The course will discuss faithful and unfaithful adaptations, reading the original texts and viewing the films with an awareness of their historical and cultural contexts. The course analyzes intention, creative distinctions, and the limits and strengths of each medium.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and apply basic terminology from literary studies and film studies.
  • analyze, situate, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and/or theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of text(s) and/or analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and/or why texts and films reinforce, perpetuate, and/or subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and/or physical ability.
  • demonstrate an ability to compare and contrast film and text through formal and theoretical analysis.

ENGLT 404 Documentary Film Studies

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

In this course, students view, discuss, and analyze documentary films. Students will learn about the history of documentary films, viewing several classics. The course develops a vocabulary of film terminology and helps students to be able view documentaries aesthetically as well as for their content. Documentaries are analyzed as artistic expressions that develop out of their historical and cultural contexts. Students will view and discuss foreign language documentaries, contemporary box office hits, and independent film documentaries. Students will write a minimum of 6,000 words.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • interpret documentary films within their social, historical, and cultural context.
  • examine the evolution of documentary film making.
  • evaluate documentary films according to generally accepted categories.
  • analyze the various components and film techniques needed to make successful documentaries.
  • apply scriptwriting and editing as they pertain to documentary films.

ENGLT 480 World Literature: Antiquity to the Early Modern World - Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 140
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is a comparative study of works that have made important contributions to world literature. Students learn to recognize and explain developmental stages and important themes in representative works written from antiquity to the early modern period and to analyze literary expressions of values, ideas, and multicultural issues typical of major world cultures. An important purpose of the course is to examine significant aspects of culture, social experiences, and contributions of non-western cultures. The class is conducted as a seminar in which students give at least one oral presentation and write a minimum of 6,000 words, including at least one textual analysis and one research paper. Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the significant writers, works, and ideas contributing to the development of World Literature from Antiquity to the Early Modern Period.
  • situate, analyze, and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of texts and analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why texts reinforce, perpetuate, and subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and physical ability.

ENGLT 481 World Literature: Seventeenth Century to Present - Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 145
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is a comparative study of works that have made important contributions to world literature. Students learn to recognize and explain developmental stages and important themes in representative works written from the seventeenth-century to the present and to analyze literary expressions of values, ideas, and multicultural issues typical of major world cultures. An important purpose of the course is to examine significant aspects of culture, social experiences, and contributions of non-western cultures. The class is conducted as a seminar in which students give at least one oral presentation and write a minimum of 6,000 words, including at least two textual analyses and one research paper. Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the significant writers, works, and ideas contributing to the development of World Literature from the Seventeenth Century to present.
  • situate, analyze and write about primary and/or secondary texts within historical, socio-cultural, and theoretical contexts.
  • construct and present evidence to support and develop clear, logical, and complex arguments grounded in close reading of texts and analysis of present literary ideas and concepts.
  • evaluate how and why texts reinforce, perpetuate, and subvert concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and physical ability.

ENGLT 494 Topics in Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is scheduled as needed under a title describing specific content. Students study the works of a significant writer or group of writers or of work on one theme, region, vocation, or human experience. Possible titles: Death in Literature, The Literature of the Occult, The Hero in Fiction, The Love Story, The Literature of War. This course is not recommended as a substitute for genre or survey courses. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • examine and compare works studied according to theme, author's style, or genre.
  • compose essays and other writings that respond to, evaluate, and analyze literary works.
  • analyze the use and effect of literary devices in a variety of works.
  • assess poetry, prose, fiction, or drama as a reflection of the authors' culture and values.

ENGLT 495 Independent Studies in Literature

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

Independent study allows a student or small group of students to work directly with an instructor independent from a structured class or course. The instructor and student(s) typically develop a contract together, outlining the course of study. Variable units enable maximum flexibility in creating this course of study. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • discuss and analyze the literature of the authors, genre, culture, or time period under study.
  • demonstrate an understanding of literature of the authors, genre, culture, or time period under study.
  • develop and pursue a research agenda on an literary topic or set of literary topics.
  • demonstrate an understanding of the relevance of the independent study project to the broader discipline.

ENGLT 499 Experimental Offering in Literature

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


English - Reading (ENGRD) Courses

ENGRD 10 Basic Reading Skill Development

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:ENGLB 55
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course provides equity-focused, competency-based instruction of literal and beginning inferential comprehension, vocabulary development, and dictionary skills. The class emphasizes literal and inferential evaluation of reading material representing diverse language, social, and cultural communities. A half-unit Reading and Writing Lab (ENGLB 55) is required to provide more individualized support.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • develop vocabulary base and employ vocabulary development strategies such as context clues, dictionary skills, and vocabulary study skills.
  • identify stated main ideas and major and minor supporting details in paragraphs.
  • develop beginning inferential skills in determining implied main ideas in paragraphs and recognizing patterns of organization.
  • develop knowledge of textbook structures and employ reading strategies such as surveying, previewing, and setting learning purposes.

ENGRD 11 Reading Skill Development

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:ENGLB 55
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course provides equity- and strategy-based instruction for improving skills basic to all reading. It involves intensive work with literal and inferential comprehension, vocabulary development, and study skills, including practice with various kinds of reading materials representing diverse language, social, and cultural communities. A half-unit Reading and Writing Lab (ENGLB 55) is required to provide more individualized support.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • develop general and content vocabulary knowledge and employ vocabulary development strategies.
  • identify stated and implied main ideas, including theses, and major and minor details in texts.
  • make accurate inferences and draw logical conclusions, including recognizing patterns of organization, distinguishing between fact and opinion, and evaluating purpose and tone.
  • use reading strategies and study skills for the given reading task.

ENGRD 110 Comprehension Strategies and Vocabulary Development For College

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:ENGLB 55
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course is designed to develop efficient reading skills and strategies required of community college students through equity-based instruction. Areas of concentration include vocabulary development, literal and inferential comprehension skills, and study strategies for reading a variety of college-level texts, including fiction and non-fiction essays and articles, novels, and textbooks. The emphases are on the following: inferential and critical evaluation of material representing diverse language, social, and cultural communities. A half-unit Reading and Writing Lab (ENGLB 55) is required to provide more individualized support.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • develop general and content vocabulary knowledge and employ vocabulary development strategies.
  • identify, explain, and analyze the stated or implied main idea, the supporting details, and the stated or implied thesis of a text.
  • recognize and analyze patterns of organization, facts and opinions, valid inferences, and author’s purpose and tone in a text.
  • develop strategies for comprehending fiction at literal and inferential levels.
  • employ a variety of study skills (mapping, paraphrasing, outlining, annotating, etc.) required for understanding college-level texts.

ENGRD 299 Experimental Offering in English - Reading

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


ENGRD 310 Critical Reading as Critical Thinking

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGLB 55 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A3
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course covers the theory and practice of advanced critical reading skills and strategies needed for college-level texts with emphasis on the following: critical and analytical evaluation of printed material representing diverse language, social and cultural communities; vocabulary development; proficient comprehension skills; development of efficient and flexible reading; and application of these skills in textbook and nonfiction reading. A half-unit Reading and Writing Lab (ENGLB 55) may be recommended to provide more individualized support.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze texts representing diverse language, social, and cultural communities using active reading strategies and analytical thinking skills.
  • analyze an author's purpose, tone, bias, and point of view.
  • evaluate the logic of arguments by identifying logical fallacies, propaganda techniques, and emotional appeals.
  • compose a sound argument in response to a text by synthesizing at least two opposing points of view.

ENGRD 312 Academic Texts and the Self

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGLB 55
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course focuses on student self-actualization in adopting proactive reading awareness strategies to enhance an individual's ability to understand, retain, and respond to diverse textbooks and print materials in vocational and transfer-level courses. Activities will emphasize learning and applying critical reading strategies for analyzing academic text materials from across the disciplines illuminating a connection to social and cultural diversities, as well as the reader's own lived experience. A half-unit Reading and Writing Lab (ENGLB 55) may be recommended to provide more individualized support.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • choose appropriate study skills for various content-area courses including previewing, annotating, paraphrasing, and reviewing.
  • evaluate purpose and structure in college textbooks.
  • compose written responses to illustrate metacognition and self awareness to socially and culturally diverse college level texts.
  • employ an understanding of discipline-based communication and language awareness through vocabulary learning strategies.
  • analyze and apply appropriate reading rates to college material.
  • outline, summarize, and respond to textbook chapters and topics.

ENGRD 315 Reading Across the Disciplines for Content Courses

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:Another transfer-level content-area course
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course offers reading skills to students as they apply to various content-area courses. Topics include the principles of the reading process, analysis of discipline-specific reading assignments, strategies for retention, and research strategies particular to the chosen discipline. This course is graded Pass/No Pass.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze lectures, readings, assignments, and handouts from content area courses.
  • synthesize materials from lectures and reading materials to create appropriate study tools.
  • assess the reading process and materials to employ appropriate critical reading strategies to avoid bias during analysis and response.
  • identify the purpose for reading and choose specific reading rate and style based on purpose and material.
  • utilize and expand college-level, discipline-based vocabulary.
  • develop and employ reading strategies for research.

ENGRD 495 Independent Studies in English - Reading

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

Independent study allows a student or small group of students to work directly with an instructor independent from a structured class or course. The instructor and student(s) typically develop a contract together, outlining the course of study. Variable units enable maximum flexibility in creating this course of study.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate competence in the skills essential to mastery of the major discipline of study that are necessary to accomplish the independent study.
  • discuss and outline a proposal of study (that can be accomplished within one semester term) with a supervising instructor qualified within the discipline.
  • prepare a written and/or oral report summarizing the results achieved from the independent study.

ENGRD 499 Experimental Offering in English - Reading

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


English - Writing (ENGWR) Courses

ENGWR 80 Accelerated College Writing

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:ENGWR 300
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course provides support for students taking ENGWR 300. The assignments are often connected to the assignments for ENGWR 300 and reflect the diversity of the Sacramento City College community. The course focuses on the writing process, as well as conferencing, peer review, and self-assessment to help students gain the skills, habits, and confidence to succeed in college level writing. This course was formerly known as ENGWR 108.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the expectations for a writing task and make an appropriate plan for responding to that task.
  • summarize, analyze, and respond to readings.
  • demonstrate effective writing habits and employ a writing process that includes pre-writing, drafting, revising, and editing.
  • connect their own experiences, prior knowledge, and writing voice with academic writing tasks.
  • apply feedback and self-assessment in order to revise writing content, clarity, and style.

ENGWR 110 College Reading and Writing Skills

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:ENGLB 55
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This pre-transfer-level course is designed to prepare students for success in ENGWR 300 and other courses that require writing. Students will read non-fiction texts of varying length, representative of students’ diverse language, social, and cultural communities and write essays responding to and incorporating these readings. The course will focus on reading and writing fundamentals, such as active reading strategies, writing process, thesis development, paragraph structure, logical support, and sentence awareness. A half-unit Reading and Writing Lab (ENGLB 55) is required to provide more individualized support.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate comprehension of article or book-length works at the literal and inferential levels, bridging the course material with own experience, knowledge and culture.
  • modify active reading strategies for a given reading task.
  • utilize pre-writing and writing process strategies to write and revise college-appropriate essays in response to assigned readings.
  • incorporate readings into writing through the use of summary, quoting, and paraphrase.
  • utilize the principles of grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, develop self-editing skills, and apply these in written assignments.

ENGWR 157 University Preparatory Writing

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This writing course uses individual and group instruction to help students improve critical thinking and writing skills. Each student writes 6,000 words (approximately five to six essays). Writing assignments are largely based on analysis of readings. This course prepares students for university-level writing courses.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compose fully developed, structured, and unified essays, support main points using appropriate evidence, and demonstrate knowledge of the writing process through pre-writing, drafting, and revision.
  • apply critical reading and reasoning skills through analyzing and responding to readings and incorporating the ideas of others into their own writing.
  • demonstrate ability to use varied sentence structures and types by constructing sentences with precise and appropriate words.

ENGWR 299 Experimental Offering in English - Writing

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.


ENGWR 300 College Composition

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:Placement via multiple measures OR through guided self-placement OR successful completion of ESL 325
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better; Concurrent enrollment in ENGLB 55
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(a); CSU Area A2; IGETC Area 1A
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 100
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This first-year writing course includes the reading, research, synthesis, and critical thinking skills essential for successful completion of a college
program. Students will develop college-level reading and writing skills as well as an awareness of their audience and individual writing voices through a variety of written assignments (5,000 written words). The course will
emphasize critical reading strategies, workshop, collaboration, and reflection on the writer’s process. This course satisfies the writing competency requirement for
graduation.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compose effective college-level writing for multiple and diverse audiences using a variety of rhetorical strategies and sources (including the student’s own community knowledge or lived experience).
  • identify and utilize their own unique process in order to generate authentic and original writing.
  • use information literacy skills and research tools and practices to identify explicit and implicit purpose, bias, and context of materials.
  • analyze and synthesize complex sources from multiple perspectives and traditions (both oral and written) to create original college-level texts.
  • effectively employ a variety of paragraph and sentence structures, citation methods, stylistic conventions, and diction reflective of the writer’s own voice, rhetorical purpose, and audience.
  • read, analyze, and evaluate a variety of college-level, primarily non-fiction texts for content, context, and rhetorical merit with consideration of tone, audience, and purpose.

ENGWR 301 College Composition and Literature

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(a); AA/AS Area I; CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 120
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

ENGWR 301 is an introduction to critical thinking and writing about works in the four major genres of literature: poetry, drama, short story, and novel. In the course, students: 1) further their study and practice in analytical reading and writing; 2) cover principles of logic such as inductive and deductive reasoning, recognizing logical fallacies, and suspending judgment; 3) learn to apply the conventions of literary criticism and to analyze, interpret, and explicate literary works. Students are required to write a minimum of 5,000 words presenting reasoned arguments about literary texts.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze works from four major literary genres (poetry, novel, short story, and drama) from diverse authors and perspectives using a variety of critical approaches.
  • compose thesis-driven arguments of interpretation or evaluation supported by textual evidence from both primary and secondary sources.
  • reason inductively from examples, patterns, and structures to form generalizations.
  • reason deductively by recognizing literary and linguistic conventions and drawing conclusions about texts based on those conventions.
  • distinguish among facts, inferences, assumptions, and implications.
  • evaluate how texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics, and physical ability.
  • use diction and elements of style appropriate to the audience and the rhetorical purpose of writing.

ENGWR 302 Advanced Composition and Critical Thinking

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); AA/AS Area II(a); CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 105
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course will explore the relationship between language and logic. Students will identify fallacies of argument and craft traditional and/or multimodal arguments in context of current social, economic, political, and environmental discourse. Students will examine methods by which people are persuaded to think, believe, and/or act. Students will focus on critically assessing, developing, supporting, and effectively expressing opinions on issues in a culturally diverse environment. This course includes writing a minimum of 5,000 words.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze, criticize and advocate ideas through written and oral discourse.
  • identify the premises and conclusion of an argument and determine its validity and soundness.
  • build reason-based deductive and/or inductive arguments, and identify their fallacies.
  • distinguish matters of fact from issues of judgment or opinion and reach well-supported factual or judgmental conclusions from a wide diversity of real world examples.

ENGWR 303 Argumentative Writing and Critical Thinking Through Literature

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (302 and 303 combined: maximum credit, one course)
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); AA/AS Area II(a); AA/AS Area I; CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 105; C-ID ENGL 110; C-ID ENGL 120
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

Through the study of complex literary works in all major genres, this course offers instruction in analytical, critical, and argumentative writing; critical thinking; research strategies; information literacy; introduction to literary theory, and proper documentation. Close reading skills and the aesthetic qualities of literature are also studied. A minimum of 5,000 words of formal writing will be required. Attendance at readings, plays, or films may be required. Online students have the option of watching these online.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze and interpret literary texts with emphasis on literary devices and key elements of major genres (poetry, short fiction, drama, novel).
  • evaluate various types of arguments, focusing on faulty reasoning and other forms of weak argumentation including logical fallacies, inductive/deductive reasoning.
  • compose thesis-driven arguments that suit a variety of rhetorical situations (including literary), effectively synthesize sources, and use MLA documentation.
  • recognize various literary theories and how application of these can influence interpretation.
  • evaluate how texts manifest concepts of gender, sex, nationality, race and ethnicity, religion, social class, power dynamics and/or physical ability.

ENGWR 330 Writing for Publication

  • Same As:JOUR 340
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is an introductory course in writing nonfiction for publication. Emphasis will be on developing a saleable article for magazines, newspapers, or online media sources; finding ideas; analyzing publications; writing a query letter; researching and interviewing; and organizing, writing, and illustrating an article. Credit may be awarded for ENGWR 330 or JOUR 340, but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate writing and marketing skills to successfully write magazine articles and find the most appropriate print or online publications to market them.
  • demonstrate ideas with a focus and slant toward a particular print or online publication.
  • research sources and develop interview techniques.
  • write and edit salable articles for print or online publications.
  • appraise both print and online publications for appropriateness and timeliness of proposed articles.

ENGWR 384 Mass Media and Society

  • Same As:COMM 351 and JOUR 310
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D4; IGETC Area 4G
  • C-ID:C-ID JOUR 100
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is an interdisciplinary course exploring aspects of communication and the impact of mass media on the individual and society. The survey includes basic communication models, books, magazines, newspapers, recordings, movies, radio, television, advertising, public relations, the Internet, theories of communication, relationships between mass media and business and government, and processes and effects from a social science perspective. Credit may be awarded for only one section of either COMM 351, ENGWR 384, or JOUR 310.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify the basic principles of each form of basic communication.
  • demonstrate an understanding of mass media and its relationship to the public.
  • differentiate among news, opinion, feature writing, and electronic presentations.
  • analyze and evaluate each form of media.
  • assess the impact of media messages on various audiences.

ENGWR 482 Honors Advanced Composition and Critical Thinking

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ENGWR 300, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); AA/AS Area II(a); CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 105
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

ENGWR 482 is a course in critical reasoning, reading, and writing requiring a high level of competence in English composition. Students will read, discuss, and analyze complex texts (essay and book-length works) reflecting a variety of cultural, historical, and philosophical perspectives. The course includes inductive and deductive reasoning, analysis of fallacious reasoning, and use of persuasive language. The minimum word requirement of 6,500 words will be divided among at least four formal essays, ranging from 1,000-3,000 words each, two of which will include primary and secondary research and MLA format. This course is taught as a seminar; several group and individual class presentations will be required.

Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.

Credit may be earned for ENGWR 482 or ENGWR 302 but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • analyze, criticize, and advocate ideas through written and oral discourse.
  • identify the premises and conclusion of an argument and determine its validity and soundness.
  • build reason-based deductive and/or inductive arguments and identify their fallacies.
  • distinguish matters of fact from issues of judgment or opinion and reach well-supported factual or judgmental conclusions from a wide diversity of real-world examples.
  • create arguments that integrate a variety of texts, properly document support, and demonstrate a sophisticated style and vocabulary reflecting advanced critical thinking skills.

ENGWR 488 Honors College Composition and Research

  • Units:4
  • Hours:72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:ESL 325 with a grade of "C" or better, or placement through the assessment process.
  • Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); AA/AS Area II(a); CSU Area A2; IGETC Area 1A
  • C-ID:C-ID ENGL 100
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This course offers the honors student a challenging curriculum that will develop skills in reading, composition, critical thinking, and research. Through a variety of written assignments, students write a minimum of 6,500 words, including a significant research paper. In addition to research assignments, students will read at least one full-length, supplemental text. In order to fulfill the honors requirement, students will complete a significant project and/or classroom presentation. This course was formerly known as ENGWR 480. This course is taught as a seminar; several group and individual class presentations/projects will be required.

Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.

Credit may be earned for ENGWR 488 or ENGWR 300 but not for both.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compose effective, college-level writing for multiple and diverse audiences using a variety of rhetorical strategies and sources (including the student's own community knowledge or lived experience).
  • synthesize multiple outside sources into original essays, demonstrating college competence in critical reading and analysis.
  • demonstrate an understanding of research tools and practices, as well as information literacy to identify bias, context, explicit and implicit purpose.
  • effectively employ a variety of paragraph and sentence structures, citation methods, stylistic conventions, and diction reflective of the writer's own voice, rhetorical purpose, and audience.
  • exhibit mastery of the conventions of Modern Language Association citations and documentation.

ENGWR 495 Independent Studies in English - Writing

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

Independent study allows a student or small group of students to work directly with an instructor independent of a structured class or course. The instructor and student(s) typically develop a contract together, outlining the course of study. Variable units enable maximum flexibility in creating this course of study. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate improved writing skills.

ENGWR 499 Experimental Offering in English - Writing

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:January 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.