WRCT 201 – Writing Theory and Practice

Writing is central to education in the U.S., but how does someone learn to write? In this course, students will consider this question by reading theories of composition, debating key concepts of writing such as reflection, transfer, and translanguaging, as well as discussing scholarship out of cultural studies, literacy studies, genre studies, technical and professional writing, and public writing. Together we will explore the potential of writing education, carefully considering how we, as educators, can foster just and innovative writing education. As we read about writing instruction, literacy, and assessment, students will be expected to bring scholarship in dialogue with lived experience. To do so, they will engage in a number of praxis-based assignments, including group work to develop assignments, assessment practices, and curricular recommendations. The course will culminate in a final project of each students’ design, that tackles the practicalities of teaching writing.