LIT203:Literature in America I, Summer 2017 Web
Reading Response Assignment Overview
Over the semester you will complete 3 reading response assignments. They are due on the dates indicated
on the syllabus. The point of these papers is to explore your own personal reaction to a text. I am not
looking for an emotional “ranting” (or raving as the case may be), rather I am looking for a thoughtful and
analytical response. Think about how and why the piece is an important part of the course. Your
response paper must adhere to the following guidelines:
Follow basic writing conventions taught in English 111 or the equivalent. Specifically, your
responses should be:
o Minimum 2 full pages typed, MLA formatted (11-12pt font, double spaced)
o Proofread to eliminate grammatical and mechanical errors;
o Organized and clear, using proper paragraph structure
o Supporting a thesis statement that responds directly to one of the prompts;
Demonstrate careful/reflective thought and analysis;
Make clear reference to at least one of the texts we are currently reading or have read;
No plot summary (assume the reader is familiar with the text)
For each paper I will provide you with basic/broad topic suggestions, but in general you have a lot of
freedom and flexibility about how to approach these papers. Don’t be afraid to take risks with your
analysis or to state an opinion that you think might be unpopular. These papers are a great place to
explore new ideas and test them out.
Please note that there are many resources online about all of the readings on the syllabus – do NOT
be tempted to plagiarize! You should not be conducting any outside research while writing these
papers. These papers are about your own reactions and opinions and thought; in this case I’m not
interested in what the experts have to say about the readings, I’m interested in your own reaction and
interpretation. I value your thought, analysis and insight, NOT literary critical expertise.
These response papers make up 50% of your total grade for this course. You are expected to take them
seriously. If you are unhappy with your grade, I will allow you to rewrite your paper if you meet with me
first. Remember to use the TASC and other BHCC resources for additional help and support!
Original author: Laura Carty-Barrett
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