WRITING PROGRAM(W)

The writing program at DePauw has a variety of levels to meet students' needs. Students are placed into the writing program based on a variety of factors, including standardized test scores and writing samples. They may be placed into College Writing I, College Writing II, College Writing for the Bilingual Student, or a W course. The majority of students are placed in College Writing II.

W Courses

Students fulfill the university requirement in expository writing in W courses taught by faculty members representing most departments throughout the university. Students may take a W course either through placement or after earning the grade of C- or better in ENG 130. Students must achieve W certification by the end of their sophomore year. If certification is not attained by that time, students must complete a W course each succeeding semester until certification is achieved.

W courses are offered in most academic disciplines, have limited enrollment, and combine an emphasis on academic content with practice in writing. Such courses encourage

the logical development of argument, clear and precise diction and a coherent prose style;
the development of general skills of expository writing as these apply in the academic disciplines; and
the responsible, appropriate and effective use of special or technical language.

Writing Placement and Competence Committee:

Susan Hahn, Associate Faculty Development Coordinator for the Writing Program
Inge Aures, Modern Languages
Suzanne Bates, Associate Registrar
Tom Chiarella, Chair, Department of English
Hilary Eppley, Chemistry
Pamela Propsom, Psychology
Marion McInnes, Academic Affairs

E-mail the W Committee

W Certified Faculty:

W workshops are offered periodically. Faculty who complete the workshop are W certified and may offer W courses.

Alternate W Certification:

In a few exceptional cases, students may fulfill the W requirement through an alternate method. For more information, contact the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs or the W Center Director.

College Writing I & II

College Writing I (ENG 120) stresses the development of writing skills fundamental for expressing ideas, imagination, and opinion. By means of short expository assignments, some of which may be based on their own experience, students develop fluency in written expression, clarity of style and proficiency in the use of language. ENG 120 is offered on a Pass/Fail basis.