ENGL1000Introduction to Literary Studies

Course handbook

Description

Introduces students to key skills in the study of English and Creative Writing. We will examine a variety of texts written in different genres in order to develop an understanding of how writers have deployed the resources of language to convey their ideas and concerns. In particular, the course will focus on students' development of skills in literary analysis as preparation for further study of literature and/or creative writing. In addition to practice in essay writing, students will be offered the opportunity to experiment with creative writing in response to the material studied.

Availability2017 Course Timetables

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Recognise a variety of literary forms and identify key terms appropriate to understanding of works in those forms;

2. Demonstrate basic understanding of linguistic issues important in the analysis of literature in English;

3. Demonstrate skills in interpretation and analysis of literary works at introductory undergraduate level;

4. Demonstrate the ability to communicate orally and in writing at introductory undergraduate level;

5. Demonstrate skills in basic information literacy and use of technology;

6. Demonstrate basic understanding of ethics in disciplinary research;

7. Write analytic essays at introductory undergraduate level.

Content

As the focus of this course is upon interpretive skills, texts chosen may vary between offerings. Topics covered will include:

• Poetics: how to read a poem
• Figures of speech
• Poetic form
• Narrative: how to read fiction and non-fiction
• Point of view
• Plot and narrative time
• Persona, narrative voice
• Characterisation
• Description
• Tone and register
• Intertextuality
• The importance of context (including genre) in interpreting literary texts

Assessment items

Written Assignment: Short paper

Written Assignment: Personal Reflection

Quiz: Quizzes

Essay: Final Essay

Contact hours

Callaghan

Ourimbah

On-Line from Callaghan