Alternating Wednesdays beginning 13 September 2000

Dr. Wood 106 Independence Hall, Kingston Campus

Email: DocWood@uri.edu Phone: 874-4030

Fax: 874-4722

The purpose of this course is to examine key rhetorical moments of the 20^th century. Students will be responsible for authoring two research papers, participate in and lead classroom discussion, critique, criticize and motivate fellow students to new levels of detailed analysis and understanding.

Paper 1: one of the two major papers will focus on a particular speaker or speech from the 20^th Century. Students are encouraged to explore other countries and cultures in discovering a significant speaker or speech. Description of events and persons does not constitute an acceptable research paper. You must identify and employ a critical methodology and you must engage in the intellectual process of analysis. Number of sources 20-40, number of pages 20-25. The goal: a chapter in a collected works of entitled: The 20^th Century: Rhetoric That Changed The World.

Paper 2: one of the two major papers will focus on a particular rhetorical event that is not a speaker or a speech. As such a movement, a process, an event or some other identifiable rhetorical event may be researched. Again, a description may be a necessary part of your paper, but does not replace the need to emphasize analysis. You must identify and employ a critical methodology. Number of sources 20-40, number of pages 20-25. The goal: a second chapter in a collected work entitled: The 20^th Century: Rhetoric That Changed The World..

Grading: one-third of your grade will be derived from the first paper, one-third from the second paper, and one-third from your class participation and leadership.

How we will be using class time: Class time will be devoted to exploring possible topics for study, probing decision already made, reviewing research bibliographies and outlines. Any topic related to either paper or the class topic in general is fair game for discussion at any class session. Since we have only eight face-to-face meetings, everyone will be expected to jump in with both feet.

How we will use our online time: The class dynamics can continue through either an email list or WebCT during the interim weeks when we do not meet face-to-face. Further, individual guidance and discussion with the instructor should be pursued either electronically or in-person at my office (106 Independence Hall).

Calendar: The first paper is due in final form October 25. The second paper, in final form, is due December 14. Drafts are due as available for review and critique between and among the entire class as they are available.