course Descriptions
Prerequisite Grade
Any course listed in this program with a prerequisite assumes a grade of C– or better in the prerequisite course.
SIS 3 Practice in Writing for Non-Native Writers
This course is designed primarily for students whose native language is not English and who score 3 or less on the Saint Mary’s College Writing Placement Exam. The purpose of SIS 3 is to bridge the gap between students’ present level of writing competency and that expected in SIS 4. Students write multiple drafts of essays concentrating on developing and organizing ideas, constructing complex sentences, and enhancing proofreading and editing skills. With an enrollment limited to 15, classes are team-taught to allow for individualized instruction. A grade of C– or better and passing an exit exam are required before enrolling in SIS 4.
SIS 4 Composition for Non-Native Writers
This course, designed primarily for students whose native language is not English, satisfies the English composition requirement (see Program of Study, p. 39). Work focuses on the expository essay and guides the student through the various stages in the writing process, including content generation, pre-writing, and editing. Essays and several full-length works provide models for writing and help students develop both critical thinking and discussion skills. Students must demonstrate competency on rhetorical and mechanical levels through in-class writing and two portfolios of carefully revised assignments.
SIS 5 Argument and Research for Non-Native Writers
Building on the composition skills developed in SIS 4, this course focuses on the production of at least two major research papers. Investigating topics of their own choosing, students receive guidance in the skills of summarizing, paraphrasing, and the conventions of citing source material. Essays and nonfiction works of contemporary relevance provide models for effective writing and critical reflection. In addition to the research papers, students must submit two portfolios of work demonstrating ability to analyze and argue a position. Prerequisite: SIS 4 or English 4.
SIS 15 American Culture and Civilization
This survey course provides the student with the tools to interpret and evaluate culture from a social science perspective. The approach is cultural with an emphasis on American values, life-styles, and traditions within a framework of the day-to-day workings of American culture. Course work is comprised of lectures, readings, discussions, and fieldwork projects. Required of all international students. Must be taken during the first semester of attendance. In certain cases, permission for exemption may be granted upon evaluation by the SIS Placement Committee.
SIS 101 Writing Tutor Workshops for Non-Native Writers of English (.25)
Through examining their own work in a workshop environment, students learn techniques for coaching non-native writers of English in developing and editing academic writing. Theories about cross-cultural communication are discussed and tested in practice.
