Master Syllabus EG2403, American Literature I

Credits 3 Lab Hours 0 Lecture Hours 3 Clinical Hours 0
Course Description

Major authors and literary developments are studied in this chronological survey of American literature from the beginning to the Civil War (1865). EduKan course number: EN202

For each unit of credit, a minimum of three hours per week with one of the hours for class and two hours for studying/preparation outside of class is expected.

Program and/or Department Mission Statement

The mission of the Humanities and Social Sciences is to foster an appreciation of the role that the humanities and social sciences has played in the evolution of civilized society and to explore the ways that an understanding of theory and practice in philosophy, the social and behavioral sciences, the fine arts, and written and oral expression will enable students to participate thoughtfully in a global society.

SCCC Outcomes

Outcome #1: Read with comprehension, be critical of what they read, and apply knowledge gained from their reading to broader issues of the day.

Outcome #2: Communicate ideas clearly and proficiently in writing, appropriately adjusting content and arrangement for varying audiences, purposes, and situations.

Outcome #5: Demonstrate the ability to think critically by gathering facts, generating insights, analyzing data, and evaluating information.

Outcome #7: Understand each other, moving beyond simple acceptance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity by working as a team to learn, engaging with community, exhibiting cultural awareness, and creating equity

Course Outcomes

Expected learning outcomes of this course are in alignment with the learning objectives established by the Kansas Core Outcomes Project. The student will demonstrate a college-level ability to do the following:

  1. Demonstrate a complex understanding of American literary traditions from their precolonial beginnings to the Civil War era, including prominent authors, literary movements and styles.
  2. Analyze and interpret literary works, drawing on relevant historical and cultural knowledge.
  3. Apply modes of critical inquiry, terminology, textual evidence, concepts, and conventions specific to the discipline.
  4. Evaluate and critically examine narratives of American literary history with attention to the role of diversity in its broadest forms.
  5. Practice foundational research strategies appropriate to the discipline and write focused, convincing analytical essays in clear, grammatical prose.
Course Outline

The course is divided into three chronological units:

  1. Literature to 1750
  2. 1750-1830
  3. 1830-1865
Instructional Methods

A variety of methods will be employed, including reading and writing assignments, class discussion, student presentations, lecture, and online discussions.

Instructional Resources and Materials
  1. Multi-media and Internet resources
  2. Textbook and novels
  3. Handouts
Methods of Assessment

Outcome 1

Outcome 2

Outcome 5

Outcome 7

  1. Competency will be achieved by requiring the student to read short stories, poetry, novels, plays and essays.
  2. Students' ability to apply the elements of literature will be measured by classroom discussion, essay examinations, and critical essays.
  3. Competency will be achieved by requiring the student to read short stories, poetry, novels, plays and essays.
  4. Students' ability to apply the elements of literature will be measured by classroom discussion, essay examinations, and critical essays.
  5. Competency will be achieved by the same methods used to measure the first two competencies with the addition of one or more critical essays requiring the student to relate the events and themes of the literature in discussing a novel and another work.
  6. Competency will be achieved by requiring interaction with readings and supplementary materials that go beyond the traditional canon to challenge students to explore the complete relationship between literature and the world'�s diverse cultures.
  7. Students'� knowledge and comprehension of diverse cultures will be measured by classroom discussion, essay examinations, and critical essays.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Seward County Community College will make reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. If you need support or assistance because of a disability, you may be eligible for academic accommodations. Students should identify themselves to the Mental Health Counselor at 620-417-1106 or go to the Student Success Center in the Hobble Academic building, room A149.

Core Outcomes Project
The learning outcomes and competencies detailed in this course outline or syllabus meet, or exceed the learning outcomes and competencies specified by the Kansas Core Outcomes Groups project for this course as approved by the Kansas Board of Regents KRSN: ENG2010