Composition and Critical Thinking

Clare 110 Clare 111

Composition and Critical Thinking courses focus on those specialized skills in thinking and writing necessary for understanding and grappling with contemporary theories of thought. Students will read a significant number of essays illustrating a variety of points of view; the students will then be guided in critical thinking, articulation, and writing. Over the span of two semesters, the students will submit at least eleven samples of their own thinking and writing; at least six of these will be formal typed essays of a minimum of two pages. The students will also be guided through a documented argumentative research paper at least eight pages in length. These courses are required for all students of St. Bonaventure University.

Critical thinking elements included in the sequence are uses and misuses of language, construction of definition, analysis of artistic work, critique of studies and textual analysis, analysis and creation of formal and informal argument, research and documentation, and formulation of a policy, proposal, or law.

In addition to the critical thinking elements, compositional elements such as planning, drafting, writing, revising, editing, and proofreading will be emphasized. Ongoing work on troublesome aspects of grammar, mechanics, and punctuation is also to be expected. At various times diction, construction of sentences, organization of paragraphs, and the development of a thesis will also be stressed, as will unity, coherence, and emphasis. The latter three aspects of good writing encompass artful transitions, intriguing introductions, satisfactory conclusions, fresh and accurate diction, and sound thinking.

All sections of Composition and Critical Thinking will use the following texts. Individual instructors may assign additional texts.

Peterson, Linda H. et al. The Norton Reader. 10th ed. NY: W. W. Norton and Company, 2000.

Hodges, John C. et al. The Harbrace College Handbook. 14th ed. NY: Harcourt Brace, 2000.

Hughes, Roderick. Critical Thinking and Argumentation. 2000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful Web Sites

	Peterson, Linda H. et al. The Norton Reader. 10th ed. NY: W. W. Norton and Company, 2000.
	Hodges, John C. et al. The Harbrace College Handbook. 14th ed. NY: Harcourt Brace, 2000.
	Hughes, Roderick. Critical Thinking and Argumentation. 2000.