Welcome to LA Core Spring 2015!

Professor Lori Rottenberg   B.A. Creative Writing  M.A. Linguistics and Teaching ESL  Taught ESL at VT and GMU  20 years as professional writer and editor, continue to publish poetry  Visiting poet for Arlington Public Schools since 2007

Introductions  Your name  How long have you studied English in the U.S.?  How long did you study English before that?  What do you want to do after your English studies?  What specific things do you want to improve in your English this semester?

Goals of the Class  Build fluency in writing  Build fluency in reading  Build critical thinking

Critical Thinking   Cornerstone of American education   Based on questioning and independence of thought rather than memorization and reliance on authority   Based on being able to SUPPORT your positions and ideas   Video:

Syllabus  Course Goals  Course Objectives  Course Expectations  Course Requirements  Course Textbooks and Online Materials  Grading  Honor Code

Course Requirements  Daily in-class exercises  Weekly journals  Writing (in-class and take home)  Tests and quizzes  Extended reading and assessments  Finals: Final book project Final book project Final research essay Final research essay Common final exam Common final exam

Why This Level Is Crucial  Many of you apply to: Pathways Programs Pathways Programs Direct admission to GMU or other universities Direct admission to GMU or other universities  One of your last chances to perfect your English skills before entering academia!

Remember…  You must get at least an 80% to pass this class!  You are “auditioning” for a recommendation starting on Day 1!

How to Do Well in This Class  Come to class, on time and ready to work.  Pay attention in class, ask questions, and contribute to class discussions and small groups.  Do all your homework—yourself!  Work carefully on written assignments.  Spend time outside of class reading and writing in English EVERY DAY.

How to Do Poorly in This Class  Skip class or come late.  Check your phone and during class.  Do reading or writing assignments at the last minute or not at all.  Blow off journals and on-line homework.  Goof around during small-group work.  Read and write only in your native language outside class—expect class to do it all for you.

Ways to Get Help  Request tutoring  Ask to meet with me  Attend every extra workshop and elective class you can!  Read in English as much as you can!

Reading Rocks!  “A large amount of research has shown that one criterion – vocabulary – is most difficult…The most common problem IELTS candidates have is that their vocabulary is limited. It is boring, repetitive, childish, or inaccurate. Perhaps the tone of their language is also inappropriate. Essentially this is due to their not ever reading much in English. Reading exposes you to vocabulary most quickly.” (Sorrenson, 2012, p.8)

I shine the flashlight to guide your way, but only YOU can walk the path. My Model for Learning… No!Yes!

Homework  Buy textbooks from the bookstore: Grammar and Beyond 4, with online component Grammar and Beyond 4, with online component Skills for Effective Writing 4 Skills for Effective Writing 4  Read syllabus in detail and return signed checklist to me.  Bring $7 for Upfront magazine.  Journals (3 entries of at least 10 sentences): Due Friday

I’m looking forward to a great semester!