1B-Summer Syllabus
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1B—Introduction to Literature, Critical Thinking and Research
Course Syllabus
Instructor’s Name: Michelle A Johnson, but students call me MAJ (sounds like Madge)
Email: michellejohnson@sierracollege.edu or profmaj99@gmail.com
Text/Phone: 530.613.1683
*always identify yourself, first and last name, class information
Course Code Numbers: 60819 and 61109
Units: 3
Course Location: Online all the time, 24/7; however, there will be opportunities to ZOOM.
TBA
Semester: Summer 2020, 8 weeks, 14 June 2021 to 8 Aug. 2021
(sixteen weeks of content into eight weeks!! Get ready!)
Required Texts: I am providing .pdf files of reading material—Important Handouts (which
contain MLA Basics, Unacceptable Error List, Fiction and Poetry Terminology and Sample CTs
and Essay); Closed Forms Poetry & Fiction, Packet of Fiction and Packet of Poetry. It is
recommended that you have MLA Handbook 9th edition (a shortened/free version will be made
available).
You must purchase/rent Octavia E. Butler’s Parable of the Sower: A Graphic Novel Adaptation
by Damian Duffy and John Jennings. Complete reading of graphic novel by 20 July 2021!!
Days/Times: Class schedule will run from Tuesday @ 11:59p to Tuesday @ 11:59p—which
means new Modules and Topics for Discussion Board will open on Tuesdays @ 11:59p and then
posting requirements will close/end the following Tuesday @ 11:59p (unless otherwise
instructed).
Though there is a week-to-week schedule, you should get comfortable logging in daily, and at
least every other day to stay on top of Announcements, updates and assignment changes,
Teacher Moments and potential events/opportunities which connect to our course theme.
*you can also download the Canvas app on your phone, so you can stay in touch with class
and classmates. Staying in touch has never been easier and more accessible!
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Student Hours: M-Thurs 9:00a-10:00a & 5:00-6:00p ZOOM Online (no appointment
needed; drop in)
https://cccconfer.zoom.us/j/7885985123?pwd=OEdhWEVWYlhHZXZKeTJmZVBOSStadz09
Password: Story
MAJ’s Availability: I will be available online during the above scheduled student hours, and I
am willing to make arrangements with you if the scheduled times do not work.
Also. . .
“I Have a Burning. . .” Discussion Board Forum is available for you to ask common questions
regarding class, assignments and other course concerns. I will check in routinely Monday-
Thursday; however, on the weekends there can be delays.
CRN #60819 https://sierra.instructure.com/courses/347851/discussion_topics/1365129
CRN #61109 https://sierra.instructure.com/courses/347933/discussion_topics
When should you send an email or text? michellejohnson@sierracollege.edu or
530.613.1683
If you have an emergency or private concern that is unique to you.
1B Student Learning Outcomes
As part of Sierra College’s compliance with Community College Accreditation Requirements,
students should be able to demonstrate competency, by the session’s conclusion, of the
following:
• Students should be able to discuss and analyze literary genres through written and oral
responses, and research essays;
• Students should be able to compose focused, well-developed and research-supported
(informal and formal) essays, balancing new thought with critical thought, while properly
documenting current in-text and works cited formats;
• Students should be able to identify and define various literary genres, forms, elements
and terms and apply them accordingly in written and oral communications.
**If students have learning accommodations through DSPS, which will assist students meeting
the above student learning outcomes, please provide me with the necessary documentation as
soon as possible, so that I can make the necessary adjustments and adaptations in a timely
manner. Questions about DSPS? Please ask me or schedule a counseling appointment
https://www.sierracollege.edu/student-services/counseling/index.php
***Further, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and continued unrest generated by
governmental politics, the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery, I
recognize I am now educating students in surreal and uncertain times. That means even if you
are not identified as a student needing accommodations through DSPS, BUT ARE
STRUGGLING nonetheless, I AM HERE. I consider myself an ally, activist and will attempt to
create a learning environment that is as safe as possible for ALL students, but in the event you
are struggling, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO REACH OUT TO ME, and if I cannot
1B-Summer Syllabus
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address the trouble, I will find or direct you to someone who can help you. If there are safety
issues greater than both you and I, I am obligated to reach out to Sierra College’s CARE Team,
so that you can get the assistance you need. ☺ The point is: no one should suffer alone. Reach
out.
What’s the difference between 1B and 1C? Which is best for me?
For students looking to transfer to a four-year university, general education requirements call for
students to complete and pass Freshman Composition (English 1A or its equivalent) with a C or
better. Next, students are asked to complete and pass either English 1B or 1C with a C or better
(some UCs and private institutions may ask for both) to fulfill reading, writing, critical thinking
and academic research requirements. What’s the difference between the two? 1B analyzes
fictional/imaginative literature (“untrue” stories/poetry/drama)—students read, discuss and
write about this literature using basic literary theories as a lens to “see” materials in new ways;
whereas, 1C examines non-fiction literature (“true” essays/documents/documentary)—
students will read, discuss and write about these non-fiction mediums while employing
introductory rhetoric as a way to deconstruct text and find meaning, modes and biases. Each
course has a 6,500-word count requirement.
Which course is best for you? Usually, I advise students who are STEM majors—take 1B, as it
will likely be the last chance for students to develop critical thinking skills through the lens of
metaphor and imagination; plus, students get to read poetry and fiction. . .for class!! However,
