Although there are no formal prerequisites for this course, students will be expected to help sustain and nurture an environment conducive to learning.  Thus students will be expected to show respect for themselves, their classmates, and their instructor by preparing diligently and participating actively in this class.  Furthermore, students will be expected to be able to draw on written and oral communication skills such as those practiced in the Discourse program.  Students will be required to write effective source-based papers appropriately documented in MLA style.  Since success in this course will depend on these skills, it is in your own best interest to consult with your instructor early on in the semester during office hours if you have any concerns in these areas--whether or not you have completed the Discourse sequence requirements.  You will also find it beneficial to visit the Reading and Writing Center for additional feedback on your drafts and essays (please note, however, that the Center requests that you make an appointment at the Center or by phone {x4334} 24 hours in advance).