Instructor: Heidi Hanrahan

Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday 11:00-12:30; and by appointment
Email: hmhanrah@uncg.edu
Website: http://www.uncg.edu/~hmhanrah/105spring02.htm

Course Summary and Learning Goals:

This course will serve as an introduction to narrative. Together we will read, discuss, and write about different narrative texts and conventions. We will learn how to identify and understand the varied characteristics of narrative literature, learn to apply techniques of literary analysis to texts, and use literary study to develop skills in careful reading and clear writing. As a way into this very broad topic, our primary focus will be on creepy literature stories that scare us, intrigue us, and work their way into our minds, remaining there long after we put down the texts.

Texts:

Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper

Shelley, Frankenstein

Stoker, Dracula

Tartt, The Secret History

Other texts available via ereserve

Course Requirements:
1. Reading Assignments: We will do quite a bit of reading in this class, so it is important to keep up with class assignments and take the time to read carefully and thoroughly.

2. Short Writing Assignments/Reading Journal: Often short writing assignments will be given. These should always be neat and typed (double spaced) in a reasonable font (I suggest Times New Roman 12 point). Assignments are due in class and late papers will not be accepted.

3. Reading Quizzes: Regular (and very simple) quizzes will be given to check that students are keeping up with the reading.

4. Participation: Participation in class discussions, combined with regular attendance, is a key to success in this class. Even if you are bit shy, try to speak up and make your opinions and ideas heard. Just as important as speaking, of course, is active and respectful listening. It is important, therefore, to pay attention to class discussion.

5. Formal Paper: You will write 1 longer paper, about 6-7 pages. Specific guidelines for the paper will be given at a later date. Late papers will not be accepted. Failure to turn in a paper on its due date will result in a failing grade in the course.

6. Book Clubs: Throughout the semester, you will work in groups since this is one of the best ways to learn from each other. I know many students have strong feelings about group work, but it is an important aspect of this class, and we will all work to make group time valuable and enjoyable. For a large part of the semester, you will work in a book club group, reading a novel together and presenting it to the class. All group members will be held accountable for what goes on in their time together and I will regularly monitor the groups progress.

7. Class Leadership/Presentation: Once during the semester you will take a turn leading a portion of class discussion. More specific information about this will be given in a separate handout.

Other Items to Note:

Attendance: In this type of class, attendance is crucial and missed class time cannot be made up. Therefore, you are allowed THREE absences. Anymore will reduce your grade by one third a letter grade. More than six absences and you will fail the class. Additionally, being late to class is rude and disruptive. Dont do it. If you are more than 10 minutes late to class twice, that counts as one absence. Finally, if you miss class it is your responsibility to contact me or a classmate to find out what you have missed before the next class meeting. An absence is not an excuse for being unprepared for the next class.

Email/Internet Access: Please activate your UNCG email account as soon as possible and make sure you can get onto the internet. Email is the best way to get into contact with me. We will communicate important class information over email and perhaps eventually conduct online discussions through Pipeline. Plus, internet access is absolutely necessary for downloading the e-reserve materials.

Grading Breakdown:

30% Short Writing Assignments/Reading Notebook

10% Quizzes

10% Participation

20% Book Club Work

20% Longer Paper

10% Class Leadership/Presentation

Academic Honor: Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Please see the section on academic honor in the UNCG Handbook if you have any questions. If you are still unsure about citing something, see me.

The Writing Center: This free resource is available to all UNCG students. You may make an appointment or just drop in to have a one-on-one conference with writing consultants. They can assist you on any stage of the writing process, from brainstorming topics to revising a final paper. The center is located in 101 McIver and is open Mon-Thur. 9-8 and Fri. 9-3.