Expectations of Skills and Knowledge for Incoming Composition I Students

Approved by the English Department

Spring 2009

Below are the skills we expect students to have a basic understanding of when they enter Composition I.

Reading

• Know the difference between fact and opinion.
• Read a text and summarize it.
• Read a paragraph and identify the main idea.

Content Development

• Use correct and appropriate diction.
• Know the difference between objective and subjective.
• Use examples and other supporting details to support ideas.

Organization

• Write an introduction that introduces the topic and leads to the thesis.
• Write a thesis statement that addresses the writing prompt.
• Organize a paragraph using a main idea/topic sentence, explanations, and examples.
• Write sentences that connect ideas with transitions and are ordered logically.
• Write a conclusion that reinforces the thesis.

Grammar/Mechanics

Sentence Construction

• Construct complete sentences—avoid run-ons, splices, and fragments. Sentences should make sense.
• Demonstrate subject-verb agreement.
• Keep verb tense consistent.
• Keep sentences parallel.
• Use correct verb endings.

Grammar

• Use correct punctuation, including commas, periods, question marks, exclamation marks, quotation marks, and apostrophes.
• Follow capitalization rules.
• Use pronouns correctly (case, agreement, and reference).

ESOL Issues

• Choose correct prepositions.
• Use the correct form of commonly confused English words and idioms.
• Use correct verb forms.

Documentation

• Have awareness that one needs to document sources.
• Understand the definition and examples of plagiarism.