Course Syllabus

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English 221- Popular Literature: Gothic and Horror Fiction
SYLLABUS

Winter cemetery.jpg2017

Instructor: Laura Burns 

Office: R230M

Office Hours:Mondays, 9:30-11:30; Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:00-12:20.    I'm typically on campus other hours Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, so contact me for an appointment apart from these hours.  Fridays and some Wednesdays I work from home, and am available on Canvas frequently throughout the day.

Office Phone: 425-564-2373

Email: laura.burns@bellevuecollege.edu
Please note: I check my Canvas email much more often than my BC email, including many evenings and most weekends. Please send ANY emails regarding the class to the Canvas Inbox for English 221.

REQUIRED BOOKS:monk-matthew-lewis-paperback-cover-art.jpg

 

 

 

1. Frankenstein,by Mary Shelley.  You can obtain this book through multiple sources, either print or e-book.  Gutenberg.org has this book at http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/84. 

2. Dracula, by Bram Stoker.  You may obtain this book through multiple sources, either print or e-book.  Gutenberg.org provides a free online source at http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/345.  

3. Short Stories of Edgar Allan Poe: “Murders in the Rue Morgue” found in Gutenberg.org  in Volume 1 of the Raven edition; the other stories are found in Volume 2: “Fall of the House of Usher”; “Masque of the Red Death”; “The Pit and the Pendulum”; “The Tell-Tale Heart.”  You can use the Gutenberg search bar or click on this listing: http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/search/?query=edgar+allan+poe)

4. Tales of H.P. Lovecraft: edition with preface by Joyce Carol Oates available in the bookstore, ISBN #9780061374609.   Other editions with the required short stories are fine.  Our specific short stories will be: "The Outsider"; "The Call of Cthulhu"; "The Dunwich Horror"; "The Shadow Over Innsmouth"; "The Colour out of Space."

5. Nightmares and Dreamscapes, by Stephen King (any edition; available in the BC bookstore, as well as Amazon and other sources).  We'll be reading "Suffer the Little Children," "House on Maple St.," "10:00 People," "The Night Flier," and "Crouch End."  You might be able to find these separately and skip buying the whole book.

6. The Reapers are the Angels, by Alden Bell (any edition; available in the BC bookstore as well as Amazon and other sources)

7. Wytches, by Scott Synder, Jock, Matt Hollingsworth (ISBN #9781632153807; available in BC bookstore as well as Amazon and other sources)

MOVIES WE’LL WATCH:

Some of the movies we’ll watch are available free on youtube, and I’ll be providing the youtube link within the module. However, if you wish to watch better versions (youtube quality can vary), please plan ahead to find them through Netflix, On-Demand, or on Amazon Instant video for a small fee. The ones below are NOT free on youtube, so you’ll need to plan ahead for how you’ll get copies:

Let the Right One In, Director Tomas Alfredson, 2008 (you’ll need by the 3rd week)

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, Director Kenneth Branagh, 1994   (you'll need by the 3rd week)

Cthulhu, Director Dan Gildark, DVD release 2009 (a youtube version with Spanish subtitles is available in the module)

Maggie, Director Henry Hobson, 2015 (you'll need for the 10th week)

 

OTHER ASSIGNED READINGS:

There will be other shorter assigned readings during the quarter, often prefaces or chapters from books on horror and related topics.  They will be identified in the calendar, and will be required reading for you to be able to participate in our discussions.

frankestein.jpgCOURSE SYLLABUS CONTENTS

  • Introductory Remarks
  • Student Responsibilities
  • My Expectations
  • What  do I have to do for this class?
  • How do we communicate with each other?
  • Student Resources

In a link in this module, please read:

• Student Procedures and Expectations, Arts and Humanities Division

Introductory Remarks

Course Description

This course will help you to develop skills in reading and analyzing fiction, as well as introduce you to the fascinating world of gothic and horror fiction. We’ll read writers from many different time periods, as we explore how the very earliest gothic works are still influencing horror writers today. We’ll also discuss the various elements of fiction: character analysis, plot, narration, use of symbols, theme, tone and style. The course will depend on your contributions through class discussion and writing assignments on the works we read.

English 221 is an entirely online class, meeting on our online platform of Canvas. Also, this online course is NOT a correspondence course, completed on your own timetable in isolation. You must participate in this course in an ongoing manner to successfully fulfill the requirements of the course. If you're new to Canvas,  be prepared to spend some time learning this platform for online learning at BC.

Please note that this class has a heavy reading schedule.  It is a 2nd year literature course, and the amount of reading is typical for that level.  Please be prepared to read ahead as the calendar suggests.  I do have weeks of short stories or movies, but there are several weeks where you are required to read a full novel.  Please keep this in mind as you plan your schedule. 

ALERT: violence against women is a theme in gothic/horror literature.  There are one book later in the quarter where there is a more graphic description.   Let me know if this will be a trigger for you, and you may skip that portion of the book.  

Course Outcomes for Popular Literature Courses

  • Demonstrate literal and inferential comprehension of the texts
  • Pose and investigate interpretive questions on texts
  • Write focused, unified and well-developed analytical papers and exam essays
  • Explain the development of a given genre of popular literature from its beginnings to its contemporary practice.
  • Identify genre conventions and apply them to sub-genres
  • Use appropriate literary terminology in analyzing the various forms of popular literature
  • Relate the sub-genres of the given literature to their cultural context
  • Use various methods of literary analysis, such as formal, psychological, and/or feminist analysis/
  • Demonstrate how popular literature reflects the concerns and prejudices of its own time.

Student Responsibilities  incubs.jpg

Because of the special method of course delivery, some technical requirements must be met:

  • In order to use our class website effectively, you should complete the Canvas student orientation and be aware of the ideal web browsers to use and the basic tools. Follow the link in BC's Distance Education page for this orientation: http://depts.bellevuecollege.edu/helpdesk/students/canvas. I’d suggest watching at least the first SIX videos, so that you’re well informed about basic tools.
  • Always keep me informed if you have problems with the technology, and I will find help for you. You may also contact the Distance Education office directly by email or phone: landerso@belleveucollege.edu or 425-564-2438. They can be extremely helpful with technology! However, I expect that you bring some expertise with you to help in solving problems that arise. Ultimately, your computer and internet services are your responsibility. If you are signed up for the online section and you have computer problems, you may use the computer labs on the BCC campus if you have an emergency.

 

My  orcs.jpgExpectations

As you know, every teacher has expectations. These are mine.

1. I expect that you signed up for this course because you want to learn to read and discuss gothic and horror fiction using critical analysis skills. Therefore, I expect that you will fully participate in all the discussions, papers and readings/viewings that I’ve assigned for this course.

2. I expect that you have come to this class with college level reading and writing skills. Note that our reading schedule is heavy, although I’ve broken it up during a few weeks where we watch movies. In those weeks, you should be reading ahead to be prepared for the next week.

3. I expect that you will use standard English for all your communications (i.e., email, assignments, discussions, etc.) in this class. Please no texting abbreviations or unusual capitalization (or lack thereof). Multiple sentences need to be arranged in paragraphs with correct punctuation. Disjointed sentences that fail to use standard English will receive a failing or very low grade. That said, I must confess to occasionally using a smiley face when I'm offering constructive criticism (always kindly meant, I assure you). Other than that, let's avoid emoticons and similar texting "codes."

4. I expect that you will participate in ALL the literature discussions and writing of the formal papers. Discussions CANNOT be made up. You will always have 7 days to participate ; if you don’t post within that time frame, you lose the points for that discussion. (Two discussion weeks have a holiday, but I will still post the discussion questions so that you’ll have the full 7 days.) There are no exceptions and no make-ups.

5. I expect that you'll keep track of due dates, reading assignments and class activities using the CALENDAR, which you'll find a link to on our homepage. Checking this calendar, the announcements and the reminders on the homepage frequently will be vital to your success in the class.

6. I expect that you will show respect to everyone by responding to e-mail and discussion postings in a way that is not judgmental, degrading, or derogatory. Even though we may disagree with the interpretations of others, please use some self-restraint and compassion in responding to others' ideas. Logical and questioning responses are encouraged. Choose your words and the tone of your message with utmost care. I also expect tolerance for others' abilities and learning styles.

7. I expect honesty. I expect that you will neither do work for others nor use work done by others. Cheating and/or plagiarizing will not be tolerated. Plagiarizing is cheating, as is copying answers on a test, glancing at nearby test papers, swapping papers, buying papers, using ideas from other sources without proper documentation, writing papers for others, or having them written for you. BCC utilizes a plagiarism detection software, and I use it for random spots checks. Plus, if I even remotely suspect your paper sounds plagiarized, I will submit it to this site. If you cheat or plagiarize, the following actions will be taken:

  • you will receive a grade of "0" on the work (period).
  • A report of the incident will be filed in the Dean of Students' Office. This report may become part of your permanent record or the Dean may choose to pursue further disciplinary action.

From the Student Code: “Cheating, stealing and plagiarizing (using the ideas or words of another as one’s own without crediting the source) and inappropriate/disruptive classroom behavior are violations of the Student Code of Conduct at Bellevue College. Examples of unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to: talking out of turn, arriving late or leaving early without a valid reason, allowing cell phones/pagers to ring, and inappropriate behavior toward the instructor or classmates. The instructor can refer any violation of the Student Code of Conduct to the Vice President of Student Services for possible probation or suspension from Bellevue College. Specific student rights, responsibilities and appeal procedures are listed in the Student Code of Conduct, available in the office of the Vice President of Student Services.” The Student Code, Policy 2050, in its entirety is located at: http://bellevuecollege.edu/policies/2/2050_Student_Code.asp

8. Personal conferences on your papers can be held in my office if you can/want to come to the campus and we can work out a mutually convenient time; otherwise, e-mail or local phone conferences can be held. If you can’t meet me during my office hours, please contact me first to set up an appointment BEFORE coming to the campus.

What do I have tozombi.jpg do for this class?

 

Literature Discussions: This class is based almost entirely on weekly discussions. I have created an individual forum in the discussion area for weekly discussions on the written texts and movies. Instructions and requirements for participating in discussions are posted in this module. I do my best to participate in the discussion; however, I cannot possibly respond to every comment or answer.  Please note that LITERATURE DISCUSSIONS CANNOT BE MADE UP!  There are no exceptions to this rule.    You have a full week to participate in each discussion, so join in early to avoid any last minute issues. 

10 Discussions (1 per week) 15 points each x 10 = 150 points total.

Papers: There will be two papers in this class, both synthesizing two or more of the texts we’re reading, of approximately 3-4 pages. Please see the calendar for due dates. Assignment descriptions are posted in the module scheduled two weeks before the due date. Both papers be automatically turned in through our plagiarism software when you submit the paper.

LATE ASSIGNMENTS: you're expected to turn in these two papers on time.  If you do need an extension due to illness or an emergency, a 3 day extension is granted ONLY IF you contact me by the due date.   Otherwise it will not be accepted.  3 points are deducted per day for the late paper, no matter what the circumstance.

One of the out-of-class papers may be rewritten for the full amount of points. This rewrite must be turned in by the due date in the calendar. Please submit ONE document that includes both your newly rewritten version, as well as your original one that contains my comments. The rewrite is your final grade for that particular paper; the original grade is erased.

2 Papers 24 points each x 2 = 48 points total.

Opening Week Assignment: 2 points

TOTAL COURSE POINTS: 200 points

* NOTE: To figure out your grade at any time, simply divide the total points you have earned by the total points you have submitted to that point. I use standard percentage markings:

 

95-100% = A
90-94% = A-
87-89% = B+
84-86% = B
80-83% = B-
77-79% = C+
74-76% = C
70-73% = C-
65-69% = D+
55-65% = D
51-54 = D-
Below 51% = F

 

Hardship Withdrawal

Please be aware that I only award HW grades in cases of medical emergency or military service, and you must discuss the grade at the time the situation arises. A HW grade will not be issued to replace a low grade.

How do we communicatewerewolf.jpg with each other?

In the course navigation list on the lefthand side of the homepage, you will find links to class announcements, the class discussion area, assignments and your gradebook. This course is arranged by modules. Just click on “modules” and they will appear in a linear listing. All relevant links to specific discussions, assignment descriptions and assignment submission areas are located in the relevant module.

  • Announcements will be posted for you as needed throughout the quarter. I use this tool almost daily to be in contact with you, so please read these announcements carefully so that you will know of any important changes or issues in the class.
  • A Canvas Inbox has been provided for private e-mail communication between you and I or you and other classmates. It is located in the Inbox on the top righthand side of the homepage, right above the blue  "Canvas" title. Since I get between 40 and 50 e-mail messages every day at my various work addresses, I will appreciate "URGENT" notices at the beginning of your email, if you have a real emergency. I check my class email morning and afternoon in order to respond in a timely manner to all messages, whether or not they are urgent. Please do not use e-mail to submit your work unless you have contacted me for approval FIRST.
  • The discussion area provides a place for synchronous discussions of course materials. In this area, you’ll find the link for every weekly discussion.
  • The  Grades link will take you to the gradebook for this class. This  area will contain all of the grades for your work WHEN I have completed the grading

 

STUDENT RESOURCES/STATEMENTS

Affirmation of Inclusion

Bellevue College is committed to maintaining an environment in which every member of the campus community feels welcome to participate in the life of the college, free from harassment and discrimination.

We value our different backgrounds at Bellevue College, and students, faculty, staff members, and administrators are to treat one another with dignity and respect.

Religious Holidays

Students who expect to miss classes, examinations, or any other assignments as a consequence of their religious observance should be provided with a reasonable alternative opportunity to complete such academic responsibilities. It is the obligation of students to provide faculty with reasonable notice of the dates of religious holidays on which they will be absent, preferably at the beginning of the term. Students who are absent on days of examinations or class assignments should be offered an opportunity to make up the work without penalty (if they have previously arranged to be absent), unless it can be demonstrated that a makeup opportunity would constitute an unreasonable burden on a member of the faculty. Should disagreement arise over what constitutes an unreasonable burden or any element of this policy, parties involved should consult the department chair, or Dean.

College Anti-Discrimination Statement

Bellevue College does not discriminate on the basis of race or ethnicity; color; creed; national origin; sex; marital status; sexual orientation; age; religion; genetic information; the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability; gender identity or veteran status in educational programs and activities which it operates.

Confidentiality and Mandatory Reporting

As an instructor, one of my responsibilities is to help create a safe learning environment on our campus. It is my goal that you feel able to share information related to your life experiences in classroom discussions, in your written work, and in our one-on-one meetings. I will seek to keep information you share private to the greatest extent possible. However, I am required to share with the Title IX Coordinator any and all information regarding sexual assault and other forms of sexual misconduct (e.g. dating violence, domestic violence, stalking) that may have occurred on campus or that impacts someone on campus. Students may speak to someone confidentially by contacting the BC Counseling Center at (425) 564-2212. The Title IX Office can be contacted at 425-564-2441 and more information can be found at www.bellevuecollege.edu/titleix/.

For further information and contacts, please consult College Anti-Discrimination Statements.

College and Division Statements

Please read the Arts and Humanities Student Procedures and Expectations on division policies for attendance and plagiarism. 

Information about Bellevue College's copyright guidelines can be found at: College Copyright Policy

This link provides a good, short summary of how to avoid plagiarism: Avoiding Plagiarism.  This 22-minute video also provides a good overview of how to avoid trouble when using sources: From the college home page select SERVICES, then LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER, then DATABASES, then FILMS ON DEMAND. At their site, search by title for PLAGIARISM 2.0: ETHICS IN THE DIGITAL AGE.

Student Code of Conduct and Academic Integrity

Any act of academic dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism (using the ideas or words of another as one’s own without crediting the source), and fabrication and inappropriate/disruptive classroom behavior are violations of the Student Code of Conduct at Bellevue College.  Examples of unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to, talking out of turn, arriving late or leaving early without a valid reason, allowing cell phones/pagers to ring, and inappropriate behavior toward the instructor or classmates.  The instructor can refer any violation of the Student Code of Conduct to the Dean of Student Success for investigation.  Specific student rights, responsibilities, and appeal procedures are listed in the Student Code of Conduct at: Student Code.

 

Disability Resource Center (DRC)

The Disability Resource Center serves students with disabilities. A disability includes any physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Common disabilities include physical, neurological (e.g. Autism, ADD), and mental health (e.g. depression, anxiety). If you are a student who has a disability or if you think you may need accommodations in order to have equal access to programs, activities, and services, please contact the DRC.

If you require assistance in an emergency, please meet with your individual instructors to develop a safety plan for while in class and contact the DRC to develop a safety plan for while you are elsewhere on campus.

 

If you are a student with a documented autism spectrum disorder, there is an additional access program available to you. Contact Autism Spectrum Navigators (ASN). Email and phone number is on the web page. ASN is located in the Library Media Center in D125.

 

The DRC office is located in building B Room 132. You can contact the DRC by stopping by B132, calling our desk at 425-564-2498, emailing drc@bellevuecollege.edu, and Deaf students can reach us by Skype (account name DRCatBC). For more information about the services we offer, including our Initial Access Application, visit our website at www.bellevuecollege.edu/drc.

Student Writing Lab

If you’re inexperienced with writing literature papers, we have a Writing Lab available with free tutors who are trained in many different kind of composition assignments. The Lab is in D204, and you may call for an appointment at (425) 564-2494. Typically the Lab schedules appointments for the following week on Thursdays, and the spaces can get filled up, so do plan ahead!

Accessibility

The online elements of this course are designed to be welcoming to, accessible to, and usable by everyone, including students who are English-language learners, have a variety of learning styles, have disabilities, or are new to online learning. Be sure to let me know immediately if you encounter a required element or resource in the course that is not accessible to you. Also, let me know of changes I can make to the course so that it is more welcoming to, accessible to, or usable by students who take this course in the future.

Public Safety and Emergencies

Public Safety is located in the D building (D171) and can be reached at 425-564-2400 (easy to remember because it’s the only office on campus open 24 hours a day—2400).  Among other things, Public Safety serves as our Parking Permits, Lost and Found, and Emergency Notification center.  Please ensure you are signed up to receive alerts through our campus alerting system by registering at RAVE Alert Registration

If you work late and are uneasy about going to your car, Public Safety will escort you to your vehicle. To coordinate this, please phone ahead and let Public Safety know when and where you will need an escort

Please familiarize yourself with the emergency postings by the door of every classroom and know where to go in the event of an evacuation.  Your instructor will be asked if anyone might still be in the building, so check in before you do anything else.  Emergency responders will search for anyone unaccounted for.

If a major emergency occurs, please follow these three rules:

1) Take directions from those in charge of the response -We all need to be working together.

2) Do not get in your car and leave campus (unless directed to) - Doing so will clog streets and prevent emergency vehicles from entering the scene.  Instead, follow directions from those in charge.

3) In an emergency, call 911 first, then Public Safety.

Please do not hesitate to call Public Safety if you have safety questions or concerns at any time. You may also visit the Public Safety web page for answers to your questions.

 

 

English 221
URL: http://bc.instructure.edu
Revised 1/2017

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Course Summary:

Date Details Due