WRTG 417W Rhetorical Theory for Writers [GEWI]

What knowledge guides writers in the composing process? How can talking about writing change the ways you write? In this course, students study 1) key concepts from the study of classical and contemporary rhetorical theory 2) ways to describe the choices, strategies, and influences that lead to successful writing 3) the experience of applying rhetorical theory to actual writing.

This course helps students learn, apply, and reflect upon rhetorical theory from the perspective of their own composing processes. Reading assignments and class activities help students recognize choices writers make as well as provide strategies for planning, drafting, and revising their own writing. This course provides students a rhetorical vocabulary through which to talk constructively about a range of writing tasks, occasions, and situations.

Often cross-listed with WRTG 518

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Winter (online)

Prerequisites - WRTG 121 , (ACT English exam sub-score > 29), or (SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing exam sub-score > 670)
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Additional Information - Students are recommended to have taken 1) any 100-400 level courses in the Department of English Language and Literature; or 2) any 200-400 in the School of Communication, Media and Theatre Arts; or 3) any writing-intensive course in any major. If you do not have any of these, please email the instructor to determine whether this course will work for you.

Equivalent Course(s) - WRTG 417, ENGL 417, WRTG 518
Course History -
Change to prerequisites 4/2019, effective Fall 2019; Change to title 10/2018, effective Fall 2019; Change to number and approved for GEWI 1/2018, effective Fall 2018; Change to description 10/2017, effective Winter 2018; Graduate Credit rescinded 12/2015, effective Fall 2016; Change to prefix 10/2013, effective Summer 2014; Graduate Credit added 7/2011

writing , Writing Intensive (GEWI)

Winter 2025 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections