This course studies the relationship between humans and the natural environment as reflected in selected literature on themes such as portrayal of landscapes, sense of place, sustainability, and the changing environment and its effects on human experience. Course work includes critical thinking skills related to interpreting the significance of the action, characters, themes, and literary devices used by the author. Emphasis is placed on writing, both as a way of discovering ideas and as a way of expressing knowledge of the reading material. Students are expected to be actively engaged in responding to the literature. As students read, discuss, and write about the literature, they should gain a better understanding of themselves and the world in which they live.
"C" or higher in ENG 100.
- Analyze various aspects of literature, including how writers use elements such as plot, character, setting, point of view, tone, symbolism, form, and theme to convey meaning.
- Produce clear and effective written responses using textual evidence to support interpretations and analysis of literary works.
- Connect the themes expressed in literature to their own lives and experience.
- Describe and analyze the distinct literary characteristics of responses to the natural world.
- Use terms and concepts appropriate to the study of literature.
- Place and explain literary works within their historical and cultural contexts.