Why study composition/writing?
The English composition classes in Parkland's Humanities Department develop students' ability to read, think critically, and write meaningfully. These classes prepare students to interact with texts, analyze the needs of audiences, evaluate sources, and use and cite those sources properly to build clear and logical arguments.
English classes develop skills required for a wide range of careers. In today's ever-changing workplace, it's important to have technical skills. You need to know how to access and evaluate information, blend different views, and write clearly, accurately, and purposefully. While making good decisions and thinking critically with a global perspective. Technical skills continue to change, but the basic reading, writing, and thinking skills in our classes will provide a strong foundation. Which will continue to serve you well wherever your journey takes you.
At Parkland, you'll have the advantage of small class sizes, taught by master faculty—never teaching assistants. Your success is our priority.
Courses
Strong reading, writing, and critical thinking skills are important for success. This means nearly every student at Parkland will take at least one composition class. All A.A. and A.S. degree-seeking students must complete the full composition sequence (ENG 101 and ENG 102, or ENG 106). Many certificate programs also require at least ENG 101. In addition to the required composition sequence, we offer a range of classes in professional communication and creative writing. These are for students who wish to express themselves through poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction writing.
Writing Skills Review I and II (ENG 098 and 099): develops writing skills necessary to produce essays.
Composition I and II (ENG 101 and 102): focus on research techniques, processes, and documentation needed to write research papers.
Accelerated Composition (ENG 106): combines aspects of ENG 101 and 102 to create an accelerated course of study.
Workplace Writing (ENG 111): emphasizes format, grammar, and writing mechanics for workers in skilled technical service and support positions.
English Grammar and Punctuation (ENG 115): improves grammar and punctuation of standard written English.
Creative Writing—Fiction I (ENG 161): focus on writing techniques needed to create fully developed works of short fiction.
Creative Writing—Poetry I and II (ENG 162): focus on poetic writing techniques needed to create fully developed works of poetry.
Professional Writing (ENG 220): includes business and technical writing scenarios as well as real world projects for local companies.
Will my classes transfer?
The basic composition sequence at Parkland (ENG 101 + ENG 102, or ENG 106) fulfills freshman writing requirements at all public four-year institutions in the state of Illinois and at many institutions across the country. Parkland College classes with an even middle digit (such as ENG 101, MAT 128, and BIO 141) are accepted for transfer as general education classes, major courses, or electives as determined by the transfer institution.
For more information about transferring, speak with an academic advisor and visit the Parkland Course Matrix.
Curriculum
Find out more information about how these courses fit into: