Writing Requirement

All SCS degree-seeking undergraduates must satisfy the writing requirement for admission. It ensures that all students have the skills necessary to meet the rigorous writing demands of subsequent SCS courses in all majors and disciplines.

Both performance-based and transfer admission students must satisfy one of these two options:

Option 1: Complete an SCS English composition course

Students may satisfy the SCS admissions writing requirement by successfully completing one of the three SCS English Composition courses, ENGLISH 110, 111, or 205. Each course is structured around a topic that will help unify the course readings and writings. Though the topics vary, each course with the same number covers the content described below.

ENGLISH 110 Writing Seminar I

This course focuses on writing the college essay. Students develop methods of argument and analysis that form the basis of all college-level writing. These skills include analyzing and evaluating readings, organizing various kinds of writing effectively, and developing narrative, argumentative, persuasive, and informative essays through revision. In addition, the course includes a review of grammar, sentence structure, paragraph structure, and punctuation. It does not address the special skills needed for learning English as a second language. Carries elective credit. To meet degree requirements, students must next complete English 111 and are encouraged to do so in the quarter immediately following. May not be audited. This course is best suited to students who lack confidence in their college-writing skills, are just beginning their college course work, or are returning to school after a significant break in time. Performance-based admission students should realize that the composition grade will be a factor in their admission.

ENGLISH 111 Writing Seminar II

By planning, drafting, revising, and editing several essays, students improve their ability to write effective college-level papers, especially research-based essays. Course topics include developing arguments based on evidence, conducting library and Internet-based research, evaluating evidence, using primary and secondary sources effectively, and documenting sources. Course assignments emphasize the importance of revision and attention to audience. Teaching methods: lectures, group discussions, peer-review workshops, and individual conferences. May not be audited. This course is best suited to students who have some successful experience in college writing but who need to learn or refresh their research-report skills. Students who have a strong track record in previous schools may want to begin here. Performance-based admission students should realize that the composition grade will be a factor in their admission.

ENGLISH 205 Intermediate Composition

This course is designed for students who have experience with college-level writing but want to sharpen their writing skills. The goal is to help students write more confidently and effectively, especially when writing research-based arguments. May not be audited. Students who have successfully completed ENGLISH 111 often choose this course to extend and enrich their writing skills.

Students should decide which course is most appropriate for them, based on the course description and their previous course work and writing experience. If students are uncertain which course is appropriate, they can consult with the assistant dean or the coordinator for undergraduate programs. A placement test is available for those who need additional guidance.

To fulfill the admissions writing requirement, a grade of C or higher is required in the course.

Option 2: Successfully appeal the writing requirement (see guidelines)

Students who believe that they have the writing skills and experience necessary to write effective university-level research and analytical papers may appeal the SCS writing requirement. To do so, students must submit

• two college or university research papers written during previous studies or at SCS
• a letter of appeal

All appeal materials should be sent to:

Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Programs
Wieboldt Hall, Sixth Floor
339 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611

Deadlines for submission of complete appeal materials:

Fall 2007 August 15, 2007
Winter 2008 November 15, 2007
Spring 2008 February 15, 2008
Summer 2008 May 15, 2008