Catalog Description

Would you like to refine and polish your academic writing skills – and more fully prepare yourself for the rigors of college writing? Then the Research and Writing course is for you.

Through readings and assignments, the Research and Writing course practically teaches the methods and application of academic research – polishing your effective writing skills for academic arenas – now and in your future.

In the research portion of this course, students define and locate credible sources and use search strategies for reference works, periodicals, scholarly books, and electronic sources. Practical search tips and common problems are addressed. Students also learn to use evidence and write a paper drawn from those sources, creating proper notation through the Notes-Bibliography style of citation, reference, and quotation. Through a “scavenger hunt,” students practice research methods, and in specific writing assignments, practically apply knowledge through the creation of a bibliography, prospectus, and argumentative paper.

In the writing portion of this course, students review grammar (including its purpose and proper usage) and delve into the components of note-taking, well-structured argumentative writing, the use of controversial evidence, the essentials of style, and the mechanics of placing a paper into correct format.

This review course assumes the student's ability to work diligently on a relatively independent basis. As a one-credit course, its focus is on preparing students to write effective papers for all core classes at PHC. Students are expected to demonstrate a basic knowledge of correct grammar and usage already; the texts provide only an overview of selected writing strategies and restrictions.

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Applications and registrations for distance learning will be accepted up to the first day of class if there is still space available in the courses of choice. Call 888-338-1776 to confirm space availability. Applications and registrations may be faxed in to 540-338-9808.