My students came into English 101 with preconceived notions of what the course would focus on, what projects they would be asked to complete, and that they were not “good writers.” I think they were surprised to discover that the course is designed to not only strengthen their writing and critical thinking skills, but that they are also receiving instruction on how to adapt those skills to be used for their own personal passions. I think this fundamental focus of the course really helped the students become comfortable in the work I am asking them to complete and with their positive attitudes surrounding the class itself. I was also surprised; required English courses never seem to sit well with the students who believe that their time is better spent elsewhere. However, my students’ eager participation in class activities and optimistic attitude towards the grading contract have greatly impressed me, and according to Murray in his article “Writing and Teaching for Surprise,”

 

“…there first must be the possibility of surprise. That is the starting point for the effective writer and the effective teacher.” (3)

 

I also greatly appreciate the focus of this class on how we can help students write well, instead of working on making them “good writers.” Because this class is so focused on adaptation of learned skills and application of those skills outside of the classroom, it is important that we’re teaching fundamentals, not guidelines:

 

“Research in genre theory suggests that this developmental process can be facilitated by greater genre awareness. Both students and instructors need to understand that the criteria for good writing are contextualized within genres—an insight that runs counter to the common belief that ‘good writing is good writing.’” (60)

 

I think this further focus on “writing well” and writing for things students are passionate about is really helping them to engage in the course. It has been a refreshing change of course to have the opportunity to show students that skilled writing, critical reading, and essentially the “Humanities” in its entirety are all not only important, but are essential to becoming successful in other fields of study.