Writing 102 Class Website
 

About the Class

Writing 102 is the pre-requisite/entry-level course for the Department of Writing’s Professional Writing Minor in Journalism and Publishing. It will introduce you to the basics of reporting – learning to research and write factually about the events and issues happening in the world around you.

As you take this course, though, its important to remember journalism involves much more than regurgitating what others say. It involves seeking and telling the truth, as well as taking responsibility for those actions. This minor will prepare you to shoulder that responsibility.

With that in mind, please consider the following pieces of practical advice:

  • Journalism assignments are not like other university assignments. It sometimes takes days or even weeks to contact the sources required to complete a story. That means journalism assignments cannot be left until the last minute. If you do so, you will not be successful in this program.
     
  • Some of the concepts and techniques you will be learning can be difficult to grasp. If you are struggling, please use your instructor's office hours. Again, it is better to not leave this until the last minute.
     
  • Make use of your instructor’s office hours. Make an appointment with your instructor if you have concerns about the course or your writing. Do not use e-mail for extended discussions or to debate grades.
     
  • Attend all classes (see Course Outlines for attendance policy). Those who do well in Writing 102 demonstrate respect for each other by attending all workshops, lectures and scheduled readings.
     
  • Arrive on time. Reporters must always be punctual as a basic professional courtesy.  Extend the same respect to your professor and fellow students. Late arrival in class is considered disruptive behaviour and undermines the learning of your classmates, especially in a large class.
     
  • Pay attention to the technical requirements. If your instructor asks for work that is double-spaced, in 12-point font and no longer than 500 words, conform to these specifications.
     
  • You are not being graded; your work is being graded.

Former students who have completed the minor are working for the Canadian Broadcast Corp., newspapers across the country, and in a variety of publishing ventures. They learned their craft, as well as its purpose; Writing 102 is the beginning of that adventure for you.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to make an appointment to see me.  My office is Fine Arts 233.  My e-mail address is editorial@publiceyeonline.com. 

Sean Holman,
Director, Professional Writing Minor in Journalism and Publishing