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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

ENGL 1001: Literature and Composition 1

This course introduces short stories and the novel through examples of the genres drawn primarily from the twentieth century. The course is not a chronological or historical survey of literature. Instead, it examines the general characteristics of fiction by focusing on short stories and a novel. This course also provides a review of basic grammar, punctuation, and instruction in composing critical essays. ENGL 1011 (Literature and Composition II) is the continuation of ENGL 1001 and focuses on drama and poetry.

Learning outcomes

  • Identify and correct faults in sentences and paragraphs.
  • Describe the components and basic structure of a short story and novel using specific examples from works studied in the course.
  • Identify and discuss the literary patterns in a short story or novel.
  • Read prose literature beyond the factual or literal level, for example, on a metaphorical level that reveals the human condition.
  • Write coherent and focused critical essays on literary texts and topics. Apply analytical techniques in a critical essay.
  • Apply analytical techniques in a critical essay.

Course topics

Module 1: Introduction to Short Stories

Module 2: Characterization

Module 3: Setting

Module 4: Plot

Module 5: Point of View

Module 6: Style

Module 7: Theme

Required text and materials

The following materials are required for this course:

  1. The Norton Anthology of Short Fiction. (8th ed.) R.V. Cassill et al.. New York: W.W. Norton & Co. (2015).
    Type: Textbook, ISBN: 978-0-393-93775-6

Bundled with:

  1. Pride and Prejudice, A Norton Critical Edition. (4th ed.) Austen, Jane. New York: Norton & Co. (2016).
    Type: Textbook, ISBN: 978-0-393-26488-3

Bundle ISBN: 978-0-393-62641-4

  1. The Bare Essentials (10th ed.) Sarah Norton & Brian Green. Toronto: Nelson Education Ltd. (2021).
    Type: Textbook. 9781774128411

Assessments

Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.

Assignment 1: Diagnostic Essay 5%
Assignment 2: Critical Essay 15%
Assignment 3: Comparison and Contrast Essay 15%
Assignment 4: Research Essay on Pride and Prejudice 25%
Final Exam (mandatory) 40%
Total 100%

Open Learning Faculty Member Information

An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.

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