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COM173 Reasoning and Writing (8)

Abstract

This subject focuses on skills and knowledge relevant to the composition of an academic essay. It has four elements. The first introduces the fundamentals of argument and critical thinking. The second develops skills in writing and grammar. The third introduces generic study skills, such as academic referencing, the use of library databases, how to avoid plagiarism, and how to determine reputable sources. The fourth presents students with a particular ethical topic, upon which they will focus their academic papers.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
On CampusAlbury-Wodonga Campus
On CampusBathurst Campus
On CampusPort Macquarie
On CampusWagga Wagga Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: COM173
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionSY/USOffice for Students

Enrolment restrictions

Not for students who have completed either GEN101 or GEN102.
Available only to students in CSU Pathway program - 7112GS Diploma of General Studies.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • recognise and meet the expectations of an argumentative essay; carry out research for an argumentative essay; determine how to properly acknowledge and reference sources
  • identify the main forms of argument; analyze arguments, and construct good arguments
  • plan, structure, write, and properly format an argumentative essay
  • reflect upon a particular topic and create a well constructed argumentative essay

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • - Writing skills at the level of the sentence, the paragraph and the essay
  • - Skills of summarising
  • - Rhetorical analysis
  • - Critical reasoning including deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning and analysis of logical fallacies
  • - Description of contemporary Australian social, political, economic and communication/cultural systems and structures
  • - Analysis and critique of some key ethical values underpinning these systems and structures

Back

The information contained in the 2017 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 August 2017. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.