College of Arts and Sciences Writing Program
The purpose of the CAS Writing Program is to help students read challenging works with critical discernment, to write with a refined sense of style, and to speak with appropriate eloquence. Although the topics of the seminars differ, all seminars are designed to foster lively discussions about works of literature that serve as models for effective writing. Every writing seminar teaches grammatical correctness and stylistic versatility. All seminars lead students through a common assignment sequence that stresses the process of revision. Students enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences are required to complete two courses of formal instruction in writing, reading, research, and speaking.

Tutorial assistance is available to students enrolled in summer composition courses. To make an appointment with a tutor, please call the Writing Center (730 Commonwealth Avenue, Room 301) at 617-358-1500.

Introduction to College Reading and Writing in English (English as a Second Language only)
CAS WR 098
Intended for students whose first language is not English. Emphasis on analytical and persuasive writing. Intensive study of prose mechanics and essay structure. Grammar and punctuation: patterns for composing sentences and paragraphs; proper citation of sources in support of a thesis. Extensive reading, including one long reading and works that exemplify a variety of styles. Individual conferences. 4 cr.

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Seminar theme: Literature and Moral Ambiguity
WR 100
Very little serious literature depicts unambiguously good characters defeating unambiguous evil. This course looks at the development of our interest in the morbid, and our discovery of pathos in squalor, comedy in evil, and hidden virtue underlying overt vice. We will study Marlowe’s The Jew of Malta, Greene’s The Power and the Glory, and poetry by Robert Browning.

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Seminar theme: The Novella
WR 100
Major authors such as Tolstoy, Mann, and Joyce are noted for their long novels and concentrated short stories. They were also attracted to the novella, an intermediate form that mixes complex character development with a unified plot, setting, and mood. Our purpose in this seminar is to explore the philosophical, political, and psychological themes found within the novella. Readings include excerpts from Boccaccio's Decameron, Cervantes' Exemplary Stories, Tolstoy's The Death of Ivan Ilych and Roberto Bolaño's By Night in Chile.

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College of Communication Writing Program
The College of Communication Writing Center, located in Room B27A at the College of Communication, is available to Communication students who would like help with their writing. Writing fellows staff the Writing Center four hours a day, Monday through Thursday. Students may sign up for an appointment online at www.rich17.com/bu. Call 617-353-6632 for further information.

Introduction to Communication Writing
COM CO 201
Prereq: CAS WR 100 or permission of the instructor. The core writing course for communication students. Students review grammatical and stylistic skills and apply those skills to professional writing assignments: news stories, memoirs, proposals, film reviews, and profiles. Weekly written assignments and writing workshops with an emphasis on revision. Prepares students to write with confidence in communication fields. 4 cr.

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