Introduction to
Modern Fiction
English 201
Spring 2000

CRN 25419
MWF 1:00-2:05
Bldg. 9, Room 217
Office: 24-224
Office Hours  MW 11:40-12:55; M 2:10-3:30
Telephone: 909-869-3979
E-mail: cmkaplan@csupomona.edu 

Course Description

This course includes a variety of readings in both short stories and novels, focusing on the works of many modern short story writers and of two modern novelists. You are required to attend regularly, to read the assignment carefully before class, to prepare analytical maps as specified, to participate fully in class discussions, and to give an oral presentation, either individually or as a member of a panel. For the first few class meetings and frequently thereafter, the course center on student-conducted discussions, making use of the "learning through discussion" method, as outlined in your handouts. Analytical maps and discussion questions are due on the date specified. Note: No late work will be accepted.

Course Responsibilities

You are expected to keep up with the reading. You may expect a quiz at any time on that day's reading. Since your participation in class is crucial, you will be allowed no more than three absences before your grade is lowered for non-attendance. I will take roll at the beginning of each class. If you enter late, let me know after class, because I will have marked you absent. No late papers will be accepted. No late or make-up examinations will be given, except in documented emergency.

Grades

Mid-Term 30%
Class participation, quizzes, and analytical maps of stories 20%
Oral Presentation 20%
Final 30%

Readings

Ann Charters, The Story and Its Writer. Bedford.
Laura Esquivel, Like Water for Chocolate.
Patrick Suskind, Perfume.
Handouts on "Learning Through Discussion" method.

Instructions on Oral Presentation:

In your oral presentation, begin by summarizing briefly the plot of the work you are comparing with the day's reading or the main points of the auxiliary reading. Spend most of your time discussing how the comparable literary work relates to the story we have read—both similarities and differences in setting, character, plot, symbol, and theme. Or, spend most of the time explaining how the auxiliary essay sheds light on the story we have read. You may quote briefly from the outside reading. Also prepare a handout sheet outlining key points in your presentation. At the end of your presentation, start the class discussion by asking one key question—this should be a question that generates a variety of interpretations and/or opinions. The question should be large and important enough to generate answers that help us to understand the story. Your oral presentation is your most individual contribution to the class and therefore your single most important responsibility. You MUST present on the day you have signed up for because your presentation forms an essential component in that day's course content.

Please limit your oral presentation to 15-20 minutes. Practice and time it at home. In addition to the handout sheet you prepare for all students in the class, you may use visual materials, if you think these will be helpful. If you fail to present on that day, you will not be able to make up the presentation and will receive a grade of F.

Reading Assignments