Our Courses

Composition I (ENGL101)

Course Description: This course helps students develop and organize extended pieces of writing. Students focus on the correct and appropriate use of language and the organization and development of paragraphs and essays. Research techniques, documentation of sources, and a short research paper are included. Constant reading and frequent writing are required.

Prerequisites: Placement testing results; or departmental approval.

Comp I Studio (ENGL101 AND ENGL098)

This is a pairing of two courses:  Composition I and Reading/Writing Studio (please see Composition I course description above).

Reading and Writing Studio (ENGL098) is a course designed to support students in their development as readers and writers.  The ENGL098 course is paired with an ENGL101 course, and both sections are taught by the same instructor, specially trained in teaching methods to support students’ needs.  A student may be placed into this course by high school GPA or WritePlacer, or the student can self-select this course through Directed Self-Placement.

Reading and Writing Studio (ENGL098)

Course Description: This course focuses on developing students’ reading, writing, and critical thinking skills in preparation for college-level courses. Students use the writing process, integration of multiple texts, and accurate documentation to organize well-developed essays. Students review grammar and learn about audience, voice, and purpose. This course supports students in English Composition I and their other introductory college courses. Co-requisite: ENGL 101 English Composition I.

For more information: Comp I Studio at Massasoit 

Composition II (ENGL102)

 Course Description: This course strengthens students’ skills as writers and focuses on analysis and argument. Assignments include critical examination of literature and an essay using research and documentation utilizing the MLA style sheet. Emphasis is on writing as part of the processes of thinking and learning.

Prerequisites: ENGL 101 English Composition I; waiver by placement testing results; or departmental approval.

Electives and Literature Courses

The department offers a range of electives and literature courses beyond the first-year writing sequence to give students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and appreciation of many writers and literary traditions of the world. Several are offered as web-based courses. All of the courses provide opportunities for students to continue to develop as writers.