Course Syllabus
Course Description / Overview:
Did you know that you can create a whole sentence using just one word repeated eight times or use punctuation to make a sentence sound sarcastic? This isn't your typical language arts class. This class will focus on a survey of basic grammar skills, including the parts of speech (nouns, pronouns, objects, etc.), types of sentences, and common grammatical errors. However, it will do it in fun ways designed to take the boredom and intimidation out of understanding the building blocks of written communication. Students will write their own Mad Libs and tongue twisters as they master parts of speech. They will correct punctuation and headlines in actual (but poorly written) signs and headlines. They will even learn a few new tricks and rhetorical devices designed to spice up their writing.
Class Goals/Outcomes:
- Students will gain a better understanding of the building blocks of written communication.
- Students will strengthen their skills in review and editing written works thus strengthening their own writing.
- Students will gain an understanding of some the weird and wonderful things that the English language can do.
Course Outline:
Day 1 |
Intro to Class and Parts of Speech Activity: Mad Libs |
Day 2 |
Verb Tenses Activity: Writing Prompt-Predict the Past and Future Video: Bryan Reagan |
Day 3 |
Finish Parts of Speech and Punctuation Activity: Write your Own Tongue Twisters Video: Phonetic Punctuation |
Day 4 |
Strengthening Your Writing Video: Double Negative/Didn't Make Sense Not to Live for Fun |
Day 5 |
Strengthening Your Writing Activity: Song Lyrics |
Day 6 |
Active vs Passive Voice Activity: Bad Internet Grammar |
Day 7 |
Peer Review Activity: Writing Prompt and Editing |
Day 8 |
Common Mistakes and Why English is Weird Activity:Word Crimes |
Student Expectations / Classroom Policies:
- Appropriate, polite behavior and language is required at all times.
- Students will be respectful of each other and the instructor
What Should I bring to Class?
- Notebook
- Access to Google Docs or other word processor
- Pencils or Pens
- Optional to print out handouts
- Blank Paper
- Access to Printer