English 119 - Introduction to Academic Writing: Writing as a Human

In this course, we will explore the human practice of writing as a technology. This course functions as an introduction to academic writing at Amherst College, and as an Intensive Writing course, the main topic of the course is writing itself. “Writing as a Human” asks students to think about what the act of writing means today—and what we, as readers and writers, want writing to do in a rapidly changing digital landscape. As we read and write, we will ask: what does it mean to express our thoughts, ideas, and arguments as full people, considering where we come from and our future goals and aspirations? And what is the difference between the human capacity for written expression and the digital capacity of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude? With an emphasis on the writing process (including drafting, revising, proofreading, and peer review), assignments will emphasize students’ own interests as they use the key concepts of the course to explore research and reflection. 

Limited to 15 students. Preference given to first-year and second-year Amherst College students who have been recommended for Intensive Writing through the placement process. Students admitted in consultation with the Director of Intensive Writing. Spring semester. Visiting lecturer Klotz.

How to handle overenrollment: Preference given to first-year and second-year Amherst College students who have been recommended for Intensive Writing through the placement process. Students admitted in consultation with the Director of Intensive Writing.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: emphasis on written work, readings, individual meetings with the professor, and group work in the form of peer review