COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is a course on the editing of technical material for potential publication. We
will study principles of grammar, style, format, graphics and layout to make informed
choices about editing, beyond instinct or "it sounds better that way." English
407 prepares students for professional work in business or technical communication and
should also prove useful to teachers of writing. Students develop editing and writing
skills, review grammar and punctuation, and become familiar with editorial duties.
Students will edit several documents, including a research article being prepared for
publication in a journal, and probably one collaborative project--most likely the English
Department homepage (in the hopes of creating an electronic newsletter).
COURSE POLICIES
In order to replicate, as much as possible, an actual working environment, you’ll
want to be aware of the following realities: attendance is not optional and a deadline is
a deadline; also, the paper or project is due when it is announced and not at some other
time. If you think of this class as a place of employment, where I am Chief Information
Officer (CIO) and you are hired, then anticipate what happens when you don’t show up
on time or not at all. You are expected to be in class (work) every day, body and
mind--that is, read the assignments carefully and be ready to ask questions and engage in
conversation. Absences may certainly harm your performance on the final or affect your
grade in other ways. As in a working environment, if you must miss class because of a
bona-fide excuse (nuclear war, hospitalization, etc.), please notify me by phone or
e-mail.
Academic Dishonesty – Radford University supports an Honor Code to which each
of you is obliged to adhere. "By accepting admission to Radford University, each
student makes a commitment to understand, support, and abide by the University Honor Code
without compromise or exception. Violations of academic integrity will not be tolerated.
This class will be conducted in strict observance of the Honor Code. Please refer to your
Student Handbook for details."
