"What can I expect in composition classes?"

You can expect several benefits from your English classes at Missouri Western State University. Among these benefits are:

• You will be exposed to both factual and imaginative readings which in turn will improve your writing ability. By reading essays and other texts, you will internalize the standard of written English; these texts will also exercise critical thinking.
• You will learn to analyze texts rather than simply learn content.
• You will put your thoughts on paper.

Though individual assignments and activities will vary from class to class and among instructors, our department objectives are designed to strengthen your college writing.

"How will my composition courses contribute to my overall education?"

Our department is organized to meet the academic needs of all Missouri Western students. Through our participation in the General Studies program, we offer classes in composition, introductory literature, and foreign languages. We are also responsible for the administration of classes in literature, foreign languages, writing, and journalism.

Our department works toward a four-fold goal:

• to improve writing,
• to develop skills in organizing and expressing ideas and in the interpretation of ideas expressed by others,
• to develop and practice the habits of careful and perceptive reading,
• to increase language awareness.

In the area of composition, our instructors believe that educated people should be able to express themselves clearly; therefore, the primary concern in the General Studies writing courses is to help you find something to say and to choose a form that allows you to say it effectively for a specific audience.

Our department also recognizes that good communication skills are vital to success in college and in your chosen career. In a recent survey, top and midlevel managers indicated that promotions were often tied to the employees' ability to communicate clearly using standard written English. Writing, then, will help you develop those skills necessary for advancement on the career ladder.