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Appendix

The document summarizes the key differences in expectations between basic and advanced writing courses. Basic writing focuses more on formulaic structures, such as three-pronged thesis statements, topic sentences that begin each paragraph, and summary conclusions. It also emphasizes correct grammar and mechanics. Advanced writing gives more freedom in structure and encourages initial research, while focusing on coherence, exploring ideas, and developing a mature tone. Instructors should be aware of these contrasts when teaching both basic and advanced level students.

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29 views

Appendix

The document summarizes the key differences in expectations between basic and advanced writing courses. Basic writing focuses more on formulaic structures, such as three-pronged thesis statements, topic sentences that begin each paragraph, and summary conclusions. It also emphasizes correct grammar and mechanics. Advanced writing gives more freedom in structure and encourages initial research, while focusing on coherence, exploring ideas, and developing a mature tone. Instructors should be aware of these contrasts when teaching both basic and advanced level students.

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api-243228236
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Appendix: Expectations in Basic Writing and Advanced Writing

Writing guidelines can vary dramatically between basic and more advanced writing
courses. The formulaic requirements for AP high school courses may be frowned
upon in a four year college. Since two-year colleges bridge the gap between high
school and college and because some initiatives encourage the pairing of
developmental and college-level classes, instructors would do well to be aware of
some of the common points of contrast between basic and advanced writing
expectations.
Basic Writing

Advanced Writing

Detailed essay topics


No initial outside research

Open essay topics


Research encouraged in prewriting stage

Personal examples used


used

Observations and objective examples

Clear thesis at end of introduction

Thesis may be implied or delayed

Three-pronged thesis encouraged

Three-pronged thesis discouraged

Support structure with clear thesis links


structure

Discovery or exploratory

Topic sentences begin paragraphs

Topic sentences varied and less formal

Focus on transitional phrases

Focus on coherence and flow

Formulaic, summary conclusions

Conclusions that evaluate, extend

Writing handbook is studied

Writing handbook is a reference

Grammar skills are remediated

Grammar skills are assumed

Focus on sentence clarity and correctness


tone

Focus on sentence style and mature

Prescriptive feedback: No I; no you


informal?

Query-based feedback: Too

Work needed on format and mechanics


principles
Standard MLA format emphasized

Emphasis on underlying
Format less of a focus

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