Semester Project for Eng 112--College Composition II

This project centers on student exploration into a specific author's background and selection of works:

I:  After taking a look at several of the authors posted on the Author List on the website, select one that most interests you.  Write a short description of this author and why you've chosen this particular writer.  Be as specific as possible in describing why this individual is the one you chose.  ** One page min. MLA format.   Due date will be posted on your couse assignments page or web-folder.

I: Develop an "annotated" timeline--a detailed fact sheet--on your author.  Give basic background information including normal bio facts and any significant events in the author's life.  Note which events you see as the most pivotal ones in the author's career.  This assignment can be in the form of a detailed point-by-point look at the author, or you can discuss the information in essay style.  Keep in mind that while you may paraphrase information and give your citation for that usage at the end of this timeline, you must--as always--clearly identify and cite at the point of usage any quotes you use from your biographical/work sources.  Please see me if you have any questions.  ** Two page min. MLA format.  **Include the work you intend to analyze as an addition/notation at the end of this timeline.  Your choice must be book-length--such as a novel, a collection of poems, short stories, or plays--whichever is appropriate for your writer.  Due date will be posted on your course assignments page or web-folder.

III.  Complete an essay (minimum: 5-7 pages) analyzing a specific aspect of the work you read.  Include related information you've gathered from other sources as support analysis and be sure to use MLA documentation/format.  (You should have at least 4 critical sources in your essay.)   **Completed project due date will be posted on your couse assignments page or web-folder.

IV.  Develop a 3 to 5 minute oral presentation on your author for the class.  Be sure to include in this overview basic background, major accomplishments, etc., and then speak briefly about the work you examined.  Power Point presentations are encouraged and handouts or supporting elements are suggested. 

***Presentations will be given in class during the last week of the semester and/or on final exam day.

Final submission of this essay must hold:

--Final revised and polished essay
--Working Bibliography
--Workshop Draft of essay
--At least 4 critical sources documented in the essay, including one book, two literary/scholarly journals, and one interview